Two events will be held on Gabriola Island this week to amplify the talent, resilience and legacies of Asian-Canadians.
Since the Government of Canada established May as Asian Heritage Month in 2002, it’s been celebrated as a platform to recognize the diverse culture, history and contributions of Asian communities.
According to a release, through collaborations between the Gabriola Arts Council, the Friends of the Library, the Gabriola Library and the Gabriola Chamber of Commerce, both the screening of a film and a comedy show will take place Friday, May 24, in honour of Asian Heritage Month.
The first event is free to attend and will include the screening of Seagrass at the Gabriola Island branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library. The release described Seagrass, written and directed by Meredith Hama-Brown and shot on the island, as an evocative film that delves into themes of intergenerational trauma, identity loss, shame and anger.
At 1 p.m., before the screening, origami folding will be taught by youths from the Central Vancouver Island Japanese Canadian Cultural Society, Seven Potatoes. After the screening, which is at 2 p.m., there will be a discussion between the director and artist Yarrow Aiko Koontz.
The second event, Full Flavoured Comedy, will be headlined by Asian-Canadian comedian Julie Kim as a “platform for artists to connect with their heritage and audiences through laughter.”
The release added that those on stage will use humour to challenge stereotypes and foster cultural appreciation.
Joining Kim will be Nancy Ho, Amit Solanki, Ray Morrison and host Scarlet Chen.
The comedy show will run from 7-8:30 p.m. on May 24 at the Gabriola Community Hall, 2200 South Rd. Tickets can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.com for $30 or at the door for $35.
READ MORE: Japanese Canadian stories explored in B.C. film ‘Seagrass’
