Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity for us to learn more about the diverse culture and history of Asian communities in Canada, as well as to acknowledge the many achievements and contributions of people of Asian origin who, throughout our history, have done so much to make Canada the country we know and love.

The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2023 is “Stories of Determination.” This month is a reminder for all of us to come together to combat anti-Asian racism and discrimination in all its forms.

Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated across Canada since the 1990s. In December 2001, the Senate of Canada adopted a motion proposed by Senator Vivienne Poy to officially designate May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada. In May 2002, the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to designate May as Asian Heritage Month.

Featured #AHM2023 Student Activities

Through art, we are gaining a deeper understanding of the unique perspectives and experiences of our students. The following artwork was created to inspire dialogue and celebrate the richness of Asian culture. 

Olivia Cai is a Grade 12 student at Archbishop MacDonald Catholic High School who began art classes when she was seven. She is the artist behind this year's Celebration of the Arts program cover. The piece selected is called “Fortune” and is a mix of oil and Chinese ink painting. It's based on a photo she captured in a botanical garden in Victoria, British Columbia. For years, Olivia’s work has been featured in ECSD fine arts celebrations, including Celebration of Arts and Spring into Art.

For Asian Heritage Month, St. Mary Catholic Elementary School is celebrating the diverse cultures of its students, families, and staff! On May 5, Children’s Day in Japan (Kodomo no Hi), Mr. Watanabe, Kodomo no Hi), Mr. Watanabe, a St. Mary parent, helped create paper samurai helmets, which pay tribute to the country’s warrior spirit. Students have also created cherry blossom artwork, which now lines the hallways. The cherry blossom holds a special significance in Japanese culture, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life and the beauty in embracing change

The Archbishop MacDonald Mosaic Club welcomed Raja Maggay, an esteemed alumnus and researcher, who shared her insights as a policy advisor for the City of Edmonton. Sessions were also held to explore the beautiful world of fine arts through music, origami, and film, as well as the opportunity to indulge in some culinary experiences along the way!