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.

  • warren chow

    Excellent work Dylan!
    23-06-2014 2:39:14 PM

  • Debbie Matheson

    Around 1914, my father and his parents came from Ottawa to live for a year in Vancouver. My grandmother was surprised to find that their housekeeping staff were Chinese men who were making a new life in Canada. She was very impressed with their skill, dedication and how much they helped each other out. My grandparents were descended from immigrants who arrived with nothing. Some were Loyalists who walked up from New York in 1784, others came with Scottish regiments to fight in the War of 1812. Like your grandfather, they paid the price, worked hard, grew their families, and succeeded. Your ancestors would be proud of your project, Dylan.
    23-06-2014 1:45:08 PM

  • Greg and Lily

    Dylan, thanks for a superb video. It's important for young people to preserve our history.
    23-06-2014 1:20:29 PM

  • David Wong

    Great job Dylan! We know the future is in good hands with you and other bright young people! :)
    23-06-2014 1:15:02 PM

  • Mamie & Eric

    Hi Dylan, you did a really amazing job! Your great-grandfather's story was so moving that it brought tears to my eyes. I can't wait to show the kids your video when I get home tonight. :) Good luck, you have my vote for sure.
    23-06-2014 12:52:46 PM

  • Gail and Ralph Hislop

    Wonderful. Congratulations Dylan. (Friends of Joe and Pat, your grand parents, and your parents)
    23-06-2014 11:14:19 AM

  • Ritchie

    You should be proud ! that was amazing!
    23-06-2014 9:49:05 AM

  • Dave

    Well done...impressive effort and thank you for sharing the historical information which we should all know that happened not that long ago
    23-06-2014 9:34:10 AM

  • Al Lum

    Way to go Dylan!Good luck @ the Nationals
    23-06-2014 8:34:42 AM

  • Louise and Gary Hon

    Dylan, thanks so much for an insightful look at our Chinese heritage. A project well done!
    23-06-2014 12:13:21 AM

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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.