Compensating the Chinese-Canadian Experience

‘One must understand the value of ethnic minorities to a nation woven by their experiences. Exploited groups must be compensated because without their contributions, Canada would be reduced to a shell of its former glory. The transcontinental CPR was a staple of Sir John A. Macdonald’s National Policy, the centrepiece of the Conservative Party’s platform. The railway connected British Columbia to Eastern Canada, uniting the dominion from coast to coast. Without the CPR, British Columbia, isolated out west, would not have joined Confederation in 1871. Chinese-Canadians built the CPR, thus expanding western settlement and business opportunities for Canada. Vancouver, the western terminus of the track, turned into Canada’s most critical west coast port for imports and exports. Presently, Vancouver remains a hub of metropolitan activity. Chinese-Canadians also served in the Canadian armed forces during World War II and eventually earned positions in government. For example, Vivienne Poy was appointed to the Senate in 1998. Since Chinese immigrants have advanced Canada demographically, geographically, politically, and economically, they should be acknowledged for their continual efforts and likewise for their erstwhile hardships. Perhaps it is surprising that Canada, whose modern constitution clearly defines and defends equality rights, once maliciously singled out and targeted people of Chinese descent. Canada must uphold its impartial, diplomatic reputation in the global community by admitting its flawed history and by offering reconciliation. Actions speak louder than words. Financial reparations to Chinese-Canadians would prove the government’s genuine sympathy for their distress and consequently the validity of the group’s claims of unfair treatment.’