June 14th, 2021: Understand the Past with Our Hope for the Future

 

More than 600 Chinese immigrants died while building the railroad in Canada. Some might venture to say that it is about 4000. When they finished building the railroad, none was visible in the picture with Sir John A MacDonald. You understand what I am trying to convey. Chinese Canadians have also suffered a great deal from racism from the beginning of the history of Canada.


But racism didn't stop them from trying harder to define their place in Canada. They have done that by running their business, investing in the education of their kids, getting involved in society, and having a contribution to where they live. They did that without sacrificing their own heritage and culture. I can still remember what the late Norman Kwong told me during a dinner I had with him and Wally Buono in Calgary Chinatown: "It is amazing how things can change. My father was not allowed to vote when he first came to Canada. Here I am now, the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta."


There is injustice in many aspects of Canada's history. We need to understand that there is also injustice in the history of many other countries in the world. That is the nature of how human beings live with one another sinfully. Calling for the destruction of Canada is not a healthy way to deal with the black mark of residential schools. It may just be another form of injustice by itself.


As Asian Canadians, some of us know and are aware of the discrimination that we might face. However, the narrow-mindedness of others will not define who we are. We can forgive and move on from the past because we believe we can have a future together. We should be proud of our contribution to making Canada strong and free as much as we are thankful for the many sacrifices of past generations. None of us will be perfect, so please stop calling for the condemnation of this country. For that reason alone, I will be proud to celebrate Canada Day.


1 John 1: 9

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."


Jeremiah 29: 11

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

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