Canadians of Asian origin—a large, growing population—are helping build this inclusive, prosperous country we know and value. Asian Heritage Month, a national celebration, provides opportunities to bring residents of different ethnicities together for intercultural dialogue—dialogue that opens doors to improved understanding of our increasingly complex Canadian identity.
Visual and performance art—the beauty of this theatre, of the faces around us, and of the joys and the sorrows of life presented on stage—alike encourages us to connect, to find common ground.
The Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick congratulates the multicultural and ethno-cultural organizations providing opportunities for dialogue, plus first-rate services to newcomers. As a result of their dedication, many, many more of our immigrant families will be participating fully in the province’s economic and social life.
Upon the arrival of the first Asian Immigrants into Canada, Asian Canadians have made significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of our nation. Since the official declaration of May as Asian Heritage Month by the Government of Canada 2002, Asian Heritage Society of NB (AHSNB) has been working to increase public awareness and celebration of these social, cultural, political and economic contributions.
Asian Heritage Month offers us an opportunity to share rich and unique art, culture and history with all Canadians. The AHSNB chapters of Saint John, Moncton, and Miramichi have also organized several events in their cities to celebrate Asian Heritage Month. Such activities offer all of us an opportunity to connect with diverse communities to create an enjoyable way of weaving together the beautiful tapestry of Canadian culture where our differences are explored and celebrated.
Through our Educational and cultural events and initiatives, we hope to help create a more accepting and united society in which our diversity can be seen as our strength.
On behalf of AHSNB, I extend a sincere thanks to all of those who have supported our organization this year’s activities, including three level of Governments to help financially, volunteers, performers local and out of town, staff and partner organizations.
Diversity represents one of Canada greatest strengths, and increasing and celebrating diversity represents one of the City of Fredericton’s greatest opportunities. We strive to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to reach their full potential and participate in our City’s civic life.
Over the last two centuries, immigrants have journeyed to our City from East Asia, Southern Asia, Western and Southeast Asia, bringing a rich cultural heritage representing many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions.
The people of this diverse, vibrant and growing community have contributed to every aspect of life in Fredericton – from the arts and sciences to sport, business, and government.
Throughout this month, the rich Asian cultural heritage has been prominently celebrated and displayed in our City. Tonight’s Asian Cultural Gala is the culmination of this exciting month and has become one of the cultural performance highlights in Fredericton.
Please join me in congratulating all those that have made this month, and tonight’s Gala possible. Enjoy the evening, and let us continue to proudly celebrate cultural diversity.
