Jeunes Citoyens / Young Citizens

Dylan Vancouver, British Columbia

Fair address: Vancouver Heritage Fair

Project: The Chinese Head Tax, My Family's Struggle in Gold Mountain

My project is a poster that tells you everything you need to know about the Chinese Head Tax and has a few images. I've also written stories of how my family got here to Canada and a section on what I've learned. I also have a video which is a small version of my poster presentation

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

The most interesting thing I have learned from this project was that my relatives Came to Canada with nothing but still worked hard. For example, my great grandfather came here with nothing but didn't give up and ends up owning a house in Shaughnessey. Also, my Grandfather on my mom's side of the family had lost everything but still managed to buy a house and raise a family of five.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

After researching this topic I have learned many things. I've learned to appreciate things more after hearing family stories and interviewing relatives. I've also learned from my ancestors that if you work hard enough you can achieve anything. That is what I want Canadians to know.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

My life is way better than my ancestors because now people are no longer racist. Also my Great Grandparents made many sacrifices for me to have a good life. I have many things that they didn't have like more variety of foods and being able to buy things without worrying that you will go bankrupt.

  • Paul Horachek

    What a nice story. It is not far from the story of my family coming from eastern Europe about a 100 years ago as well. Very impressive.
    26-06-2014 9:12:55 AM

  • Verna Mar

    Great job Dylan! Its great to see that the younger Chinese Canadian understand their history and the sacrifices that their ancestors made.
    26-06-2014 1:48:30 AM

  • Christopher Adams

    Dylan, this is a very impressive video. Great job! Your delivery is excellent and you have certainly conveyed the impact that the Head Tax and Exclusion Act had on the Chinese community and how Chinese immigrants faced other forms of discrimination in their social, economic and political lives. Thanks for sharing this video and for enlightening people on the determination and fortitude of your great Grandfather and your Grandfather.
    26-06-2014 1:38:27 AM

  • Veronica & Ted Kagetsu

    Hi Dylan, congratulations on a job well done! You have our vote, GOOD LUCK!
    24-06-2014 10:49:38 PM

  • Denise North

    Wow Dylan! Fantastic job on your research project! You have done a tremendous amount of research on your family history (great grandparents) I love the video you made- great photos and location shots. What program did you use to make the video? You have a great chance at being selected. I'm sure your family is very proud of you!
    24-06-2014 4:48:52 PM

  • eric berkefeld

    nicely done by a nice young man!!!! good luck dylan
    24-06-2014 11:14:21 AM

  • M Marshall

    A great report Dylan, your family must be very proud of you. You seem very mature for your 11 years.
    24-06-2014 8:46:55 AM

  • Anthony Lee

    Excellent research and a great presentation!
    24-06-2014 1:14:08 AM

  • Carolyn Canfield

    Hey Dylan, this is a fantastic video. I’m so totally impressed. Really wonderful. I’m awe-struck by your research, production and performance. Good luck to you in the competition! Outstanding!!

    You make me very proud to be a first generation Canadian, having immigrated when I was 21, just like your great-grandfather. I had it very easy by comparison, coming from the USA in 1971, and blending into society invisibly.

    I know you must be so proud of the contribution your family has made to your country over more than a century. Enjoy an especially big celebration this year on July 1 Canada Day!

    Thanks for sharing this great work on your family history with the world! Congratulations again on a superb job.


    23-06-2014 7:59:33 PM

  • Gary and Danielle

    Great job! History has taught him well.
    23-06-2014 7:52:55 PM

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Project partially funded by the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage.
  • Canadian Heritage / Patrimoine Canadien
  • Government of Canada
  • HBC: Hudson's Bay Company
  • ecentricarts inc.