Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.
Thanks to Mr. Fred Kwok, Hon. Yuen Pau Woo, Mr. Tung Chan, and Mr. Jimmy Yan’s speeches. As they analyze, we know the challenges we face. Today’s topic is important for me, for the community that I care about, and for this country that I love.
But let me start by sharing a story with you—when we were planning this topic, I never thought I’d be speaking today. That was until Professor Henry Yu pointed out that all the speakers were male, and suggested I step up to ensure a more balanced representation of voices. When I informed Revin, the volunteer designing the poster that, at Professor Yu’s suggestion, my photo should be included, she jokingly asked, “Are you trying to achieve gender balance all by yourself??”
Her humour made me laugh, but it also gave me pause. Why, despite recognizing the importance of this topic, hadn’t I prepared to speak in the first place? The reasons, I realized, were twofold. First, I was hesitant about my English. Second, I assumed that with such esteemed speakers addressing this topic, I did not need to add my voice—their words could speak for me.
Does this sound familiar? Many Chinese Canadians are hesitant to engage in discussions about societal issues for the same reasons: “My English isn’t good enough.” “There are others to represent me.”
These barriers are precisely what we need to overcome as a community. They hold us back from active participation in Canadian politics and marginalize us further. We must continually encourage one another, just like Professor Yu did to me. Chinese Canadians need more of this internal motivation.
So, what should motivate us to actively engage in Canadian societal affairs? I believe one of the key factors is the desire to be part of Canada’s “mainstream society.”
What is Canada’s mainstream? In my view, Canada’s mainstream isn’t about a particular ethnicity or a prestige group. The mainstream consists of all Canadians who actively participate in the social and political life of this country.
From the 18th century, when Chinese immigrants first arrived in Canada, to today, what challenges have we faced?
No or low participation is a big one. Even after regaining the right to vote in 1947, our voter turnout remains significantly low. Richmond, for instance, gained a not-good name in Canadian political science classes as the city with the lowest voter turnout in the federal election 2019.
Beyond voting, Chinese Canadian candidates at all three levels of government remain scarce.
This lack of participation not only diminishes our community’s voice in government but also limits our contribution to Canada’s political development.
Moreover, when English-language media publish false or misleading reports about our community, we often remain silent, believing in the philosophy that “truth will speak for itself.” Unfortunately, this Eastern wisdom does not apply in Western society. In Canada, if you don’t refute allegations or speak out, people are easy to assume the accusations are true.
This year marks my eighth year as a community volunteer. Over the years, as I’ve encouraged Chinese Canadians to speak up, I’ve often heard this question: “Chinese Canadians are Canadians. What special demands do we have to speak up about?”
Yes, we don’t have any special demands. Our concerns are part of the broader concerns of all Canadians.
- When we call for an end to discrimination, we aim to create a more harmonious Canadian society.
- When we encourage voting and political participation, we strive to strengthen Canada’s democratic institutions.
- When we advocate for careful deliberation on foreign interference and the refinement of Bill C-70, we do so to uphold the rule of law and protect the principles of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The Lunar New Year has just passed, and with spring coming, it’s a season of renewal and growth. In this new year, faced with new challenges, Chinese Canadians must work harder to contribute to building our stronger civil society. For my part, I’ll also continue striving for better gender balance in social affairs.
It’s a long road ahead. Let’s walk together! Thank you.
Dr. Ally Wang, a former business professional turned full-time writer, now resides in Canada. A strong advocate of the idea that “your worldview shapes your reality,” she emphasizes the importance of finding joy and self-entertainment in life’s challenges. Dr. Wang shares her insights on a range of topics, from lifestyle and education to current events, aiming to broaden perspectives and stimulate meaningful discussions.
Disclaimer
Voices & Bridges publishes opinions like this from the community to encourage constructive discussion and debate on important issues. Views represented in the articles are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the V&B.