project 1907
we provide spaces for diasporic Asians to understand our histories, explore our identities, examine our privileges and reclaim our power
illustration by @raymondsbrain
Through events, programming, education and resources, we explore the nuances of our intersectional experiences as entry points to building collective action and solidarity within, and across, communities experiencing racism.
We are moved to action from our histories. We draw upon our lived experiences to advocate for our political, racial and social inclusion and justice.
why 1907?
In 1907, an anti-immigration rally exploded into 3 days of violence and vandalism in Vancouver’s Chinatown and Paueru-gai (Powell Street neighbourhood). Including white banners labelled “For a White Canada”, this became known as the Anti-Asian Riots, or the riot that changed Canada.
The riots led to the discovery of opium dens in Chinatown resulting in harsh new drug legislation including Canada’s first Opium Act. This was one of the vehicles used to portray Chinese Canadians as a threat and organize “Oriental” exclusion, most significantly impacting South Asian and East Asian communities.
To this day, anti-immigrant sentiment and discriminatory enforcement continue to lead to unequal, harmful outcomes for racialized communities. With project 1907, we aim to break cycles of racism and discrimination and create space for healing by recognizing, reclaiming and reframing our histories.