May is Asian Heritage Month
May 01, 2022 at 6:23 PM
Asian Heritage Month has been celebrated across Canada since the 1990's. It was officially recognized by the Government of Canada in May 2002.
Every year at this time, CUPE celebrates the many achievements and contributions of Canadians of Asian descent who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today. We also acknowledge and honour the activism of people of Asian descent in their fight for human rights and social justice.
COVID-19 has amplified anti-Asian racism. The current pandemic has been made worse by xenophobia, increased feelings of isolation, exclusion, and hate. Asian communities have reported an increase in racism and discrimination since the beginning of the pandemic. These experiences are also layered with misogyny and sexism. According to data analyzed by the grassroots Asian community group project1907.org and the Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter (CCNCTO), women have been most impacted by the spike in anti-Asian racism in Canada, reporting 64 per cent of incidents.
These unwelcomed and unwanted acts of violence need to stop.
For Asian Heritage Month, CUPE would like to remind members that we are here to support you through any experience of racism in your workplace, union, and community. CUPE encourages members to act against racism, discrimination, xenophobia, misogyny, sexism, and all forms of oppression today, tomorrow, and always.
