05/06/2024 

Treaty 1 and Dakota Territory, Homeland of the Red River Metis, Winnipeg MB – MLA for Fort Richmond, Jennifer Chen, today introduced a bill to recognize May as Asian Heritage Month in Manitoba. 

"Representation matters and I’m proud to be a part of a team that reflects people from all walks of life and across the province,” said MLA Chen, the first Chinese Canadian elected to the Manitoba Legislature. “This bill builds on the work of many Asian communities who work every day to uplift our culture and heritage. Asian communities have called Manitoba home for centuries and have made significant contributions to our province.” 

May 2024 was proclaimed Asian Heritage Month by the Government of Manitoba earlier this month. Once passed, Bill 212 would permanently recognize this commemorative month every year. 

“Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about the diverse culture and long history of Asian communities in Manitoba and Canada,” said Fortunato Lim, President of the Asian Heritage Society of Manitoba. “It acknowledges the many achievements and contributions of people of Asian origin who, throughout our history, have done so much to make this a place, we call home. Thank you to the government of Manitoba for recognizing the importance of Asian Heritage Month and shaping the values and common bond of all Manitobans.”