PVNC Catholic celebrates Asian Heritage Month
May 7, 2024
May is Asian Heritage Month (AHM) in Canada. This is a time to reflect on and recognize the many contributions that people of Asian origin have made and continue to make to Canada. Asian Heritage Month offers everyone in Canada an opportunity to learn more about the history of people of Asian origin in Canada and to celebrate their contributions to the growth and prosperity of our society.
Continuing our efforts to value relationships, the PVNC Catholic AHM opening ceremony on Wed., May 1 at Holy Cross CSS brought together key partners to stimulate dialogue, honour Asian Canadian pioneers and change makers, and celebrate their role in shaping our communities. Students were also in attendance to perform the National Anthem, participate in the parade of flags, as well as present and display traditional Asian attire. St. Peter CSS student Caitlyn Chan Reynolds presented her art piece titled “Our Heritage” to those in attendance.
“With the increasing diversity in our student population and in our communities, it is so important to allow voice for our students and families to really honour who they are and all of use to acknowledge the pieces of history that brought us to where we are,” said Dr. Cynthia Chan Reynolds, PVNCCDSB psychologist and manager of student services. “We need to honour all of our students so acknowledging the heritage pieces of our students is really key.”
The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2024 is “Stories of Determination”, which represents the strides made and the challenges overcome by Asian communities to thrive in Canada over the last 2 centuries and beyond. It is a history filled with hardship and setbacks, but ultimately, it is a story of triumph over adversity.
“As a Catholic school board, we remain committed to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and equity within our schools and broader community,” said Stephen O’Sullivan, Director of Education. “We recognize that this mosaic of cultures, traditions, and perspectives enriches the fabric of our community, aligning closely with the principles of our Catholic Social Teachings.”
Throughout this month, students and staff in our schools will be participating in various activities to reflect on the profound history and impact people of Asian origin have had in Canada.