Language, Identity and Heritage Preservation in Singapore and Vancouver

Join the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) and the York Centre for Asian Research (YCAR) as we discuss the efforts to preserve Chinese languages other than Mandarin-specifically, Cantonese, Hakka, Hokkien, and Teochew-in Singapore and Vancouver. In both of these cities, the story of their Chinese communities’ rich linguistic diversity and heritage is often under-explored and under-examined. Based on fieldwork conducted in both locations, we will showcase the preservation and revitalization efforts for these languages, as well as the strategies taken and challenges faced by these communities, especially in engaging with newer generations. Learn more about the public engagement and educational materials produced for this project including a podcast series, video and other teaching resources.
This project is supported by a grant from the National Geographic Society.
Justin Kwan is a Project Specialist at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada where his work supports the Asia Pacific Curriculum project for Canadian high school students. Justin graduated with a MA in Asia Pacific Policy Studies from the University of British Columbia where his graduate-level research focused on the issue of identity in Greater China.
Jean Michel Montsion is an associate professor in the Department of Multidisciplinary Studies at Glendon College and a Distinguished Fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. His research focuses on ethnic, identity and community politics in gateway cities like Vancouver and Singapore.
All are welcome.
For more information, email ycar@yorku.ca.