As we mark Asian Heritage Month this May, we want to acknowledge the recent tragedy that took place at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver. Our hearts are with all those impacted by this devastating event. We encourage anyone in our community who may be affected to seek support – students can access VIU’s student support services and employees can connect with help through the Employee Family Assistance program. Please reach out if you need support during this time and check in with those around you. You are not alone.
The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2025 in Canada is: “Unity in Diversity: The Impact of Asian Communities in Shaping Canadian Identity.” This month, we invite all members of our university community to reflect on and celebrate the many remarkable contributions that Canadians of Asian descent have made – and continue to make – to our society, culture, and shared history. It’s also a time to recognize the challenges and inequities that people from Asian communities still face – and to reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces on our campuses.
At VIU, we are proud to learn from and alongside students and colleagues of diverse Asian backgrounds. Their voices, stories, and lived experiences enrich our university in countless ways, reminding us of the strength that comes from diversity and mutual respect.
Let this month be one of reflection, learning, and celebration. You’ll find related resources on our Asian Heritage Month blog post, and we encourage everyone to take part in the events and activities happening at VIU and in the broader community. Stay connected through the VIU Digest, the events listing and the VIU Events calendar to learn more about what is happening at VIU this month. We hope to see you there as we come together to honour this important month and foster a deeper culture of equity, understanding, and belonging throughout the year.
Sincerely,
Emily Huner, CPA, CMA, MBA (she/her)
Acting President
David Paterson, PhD (he/him)
Associate Vice-President, Diversity, Equity and Human Rights
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