100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CHINESE EXCLUSION ACT

“On July 1, 1923, a significant yet somber chapter was written into the annals of Canadian history with the enactment of the Chinese Immigration Act, commonly known as the Chinese Exclusion Act. This legislation marked the culmination of decades of increasing restrictions and racial animosity, effectively halting Chinese immigration to Canada for the next 24 years. As we observe the 100th anniversary of this Act, our documentary aims to shed light on this dark period in Canadian history and its profound impact on the Chinese Canadian community.

This film weaves together personal narratives, expert analyses, and archival materials to trace the origins and consequences of the Exclusion Act. We explore the societal, economic, and political forces that shaped this legislation, the lives it altered, and the resilience of the Chinese Canadian community in the face of institutionalized discrimination.

By revisiting the legacy of the Chinese Exclusion Act, this documentary seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the struggles for recognition and equality faced by Chinese Canadians. It is a story of exclusion and endurance, reflecting broader themes of immigration, racism, and the fight for civil rights in Canada. Join us as we reflect on the past to better understand the present and inspire a more inclusive future.”