May is Asian and South Asian Heritage Month in Ontario. In May 2002, the Government of Canada officially declared May as Asian Heritage Month. At the provincial level, the Legislative Assembly of Ontario designated May as South Asian Heritage Month in 2001 and as Asian Heritage Month in 2005.
The South Asian Heritage Act of 2001 established the foundation upon which South Asians, whose origins are or can be traced to the Indian subcontinent, can see themselves reflected and valued in the fabric of Ontario and our schools, and appreciated for their extensive contributions to Canada. In May 2002, the Government of Canada signed an official declaration to designate May as Asian Heritage Month. This acknowledges the long and rich history of Asian Canadians from East Asia, Southern Asia, Western and Southeast Asia and their contributions to significant Canada.
As we approach the month of May, staff and students are encouraged to join Ontarians and Canadians who will be coming together to understand, affirm and appreciate the vibrant heritages of people of Asian and South Asian descent.