EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims the month of February in each year as Chinese Heritage Month.

Bill 183 2024

An Act to proclaim the month of February as Chinese Heritage Month

Preamble

Since 1788, the Chinese community has been making a significant, progressive and enduring impact in Canada, including here at home in Ontario, by helping to build critical infrastructure and improve the Canadian economy while adding depth and character to the social fabric of our province and nation.

Today, Ontario is home to more than 820,000 people of Chinese origin who have made and continue to make substantial contributions to the growth and prosperity of the Province of Ontario.

February is an important month for the Chinese Canadian community because the Lunar New Year occurs during the winter season. The Lunar New Year is a significant cultural observance and celebratory time for Chinese Canadians as it signifies a new beginning and heralds the upcoming arrival of spring.

By proclaiming the month of February Chinese Heritage Month in Ontario, the Province of Ontario publicly acknowledges and affirms that people of Chinese descent are an important part of our province. Chinese Heritage Month in Ontario also serves to recognize the worthy contributions of Chinese Canadians as they help to shape and refine the social, economic, political and cultural landscape in Ontario. Chinese Heritage Month in Ontario is an opportunity to remember, celebrate and educate future generations about Chinese Canadians and the important role they have played and continue to play in promoting the important values of diversity, multiculturalism and inclusion in communities all across Ontario.

Therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Chinese Heritage Month

1 The month of February in each year is proclaimed as Chinese Heritage Month.

Commencement

2 This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3 The short title of this Act is the Chinese Heritage Month Act, 2024.