WHEREAS in May 2002, the Government of Canada declared May as Asian Heritage Month which is celebrated across Canada to commemorate the contributions of Asians to Canadian society;
WHEREAS Oakville is a culturally diverse community with a significant Asian population, according to the 2021 census, more than half of Oakville’s foreign-born immigrant population were born in Asian countries;
WHEREAS the upcoming month of May is Asian Heritage Month in Oakville and it presents an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of Asian Canadians to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Oakville and Canada as a whole;
WHEREAS we must commit to taking concrete steps to address and eliminate discrimination, racism, and hate crimes in our community and acknowledge the ongoing discrimination and racism that many members of the Asian community continue to face;
WHEREAS the most positive step we can take is to provide the opportunity for Oakville residents to learn more about and understand the diverse cultures and traditions of Asian Canadians and to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and exchange;
WHEREAS the town of Oakville currently provides programming to recognize Asian Heritage month as part of the Recreation and Culture programs and the Oakville Public Library programs.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT through the town ongoing work on our Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Multi-Year Plan and the Events Plan that we consider options to enhance programs which recognize the many contributions that the Asian culture provides to the Oakville and Canada;
THAT the town work with local community organizations, schools, and businesses to raise awareness of Asian Heritage Month and promote inclusivity and diversity in our community;
THAT these initiatives and the celebration of Asian Heritage Month will serve as a meaningful recognition of the contributions and accomplishments of the Asian Canadian community in Oakville, and will promote greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse cultures and traditions that make our community so rich and vibrant; and
THAT that the month of May 2023 be recognized as Asian Heritage Month in the Town of Oakville.