Background

The Province committed to start work to advance a South Asian museum in 2017. 

This initiative builds on the Punjabi Canadian Legacy Project (2014-2018) and the South Asian Canadian Legacy Project (2020-2022) led by the South Asian Studies Institute and supported through funding from the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Branch of government. This work includes a website, education curriculum supplements, a social history book, a travelling exhibition, historical site inventories, settler stories and community specific projects.

Additionally, government further celebrated and acknowledged the diversity and contributions of Canadians of South Asian heritages in British Columbia through Heritage BC. Heritage BC was contracted to administer the public nomination process for places of historical significance to Canadians of South Asian heritages in British Columbia. The nomination period in 2016 resulted in the naming of 15 historical sites throughout the province and a South Asian Canadian Map on Heritage BC.

Canadians of South Asian heritages have an extensive, diverse and inspirational histories in British Columbia dating back to the early 1900’s. The contributions of Canadians of South Asian heritages, both past and present, are integral to the legacy and continued success of our province. From endeavors in agriculture and forestry, to entrepreneurship and social activism British Columbians of South Asian descent have established and improved many aspects of our province. However, these accomplishments and contributions are not without great adversity.

It is integral to recognize that the province was not always welcoming to people with South Asian heritage. Canadian communities of South Asian heritages have been subject to extensive discrimination, exclusion and racism which continues to manifest. Looking back there are various established instances of harm to these communities. Discrimination through the restriction of immigration for women and children; families of already arrived Canadians of South Asian heritages. Exclusion through disenfranchisement and restrictions on the ability to come and go from Canada. As well as many overt acts of racism through work, education, and community.

The limitations and diminishment applied to Canadians of South Asian heritages through history were applied regardless of individual heritage, culture, or religion. As such, policy and legislation to harm and restrict Canadians of South Asian heritages was enacted through, at that time, anti-Asian immigration and sentiment. The diversity and unique identities of Canadians of South Asian heritages was reduced and minimized by colonial worldviews. This created a shared experience in establishing roots in B.C. for individuals and communities of South Asian heritages.

There has been work done to date to highlight this history and celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of Canadians of South Asian heritages. However, there is more needed to address these historical injustices, to fight discrimination and to create a more welcoming and inclusive province. The goal for this project is to gain insight from Canadian communities of South Asian heritages on what is important and meaningful for them. As well, to create a museum/cultural centre that celebrates, recognizes, and shares the stories, culture, and success of Canadians of South Asian heritages.