Dance strengthens Asian Canadians' cultural ties in British Columbia

Asian Heritage Month is being highlighted in Canada, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Asian Canadian culture, especially after a recent tragedy. Dance is a key element in connecting Asian Canadians to their heritage. Several Asian Canadian dancers in British Columbia are sharing how dance helps them connect with their culture and community. These include traditional forms like Lion Dance, Mandala dance, Yosakoi, and Bhangra, each fostering a sense of belonging. The federal government declared May as Asian Heritage Month in 2001 to recognize the contributions of Canadians of Asian origin. In 2021, over 1.4 million people of Asian heritage lived in B.C., representing about 28% of the population.