The Hon. Andrew Scheer, the Leader of Canada’s Conservatives, issues statement 12th anniversary of the Chinese Head Tax Apology
JUNE 22, 2018
OTTAWA, ON – The Hon. Andrew Scheer, the Leader of Canada’s Conservatives, issues statement 12th anniversary of the Chinese Head Tax Apology:
“Canada is home to a vibrant and dynamic Chinese community. China continues to be one of Canada’s top sources for newcomers.
“Today marks the 12th anniversary of Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s official apology on behalf of the Canadian government for the ‘grave injustice’ that was the Chinese Head Tax.
“The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway sparked an influx of Chinese immigration to Canada during the 19th century. Many of these Chinese immigrants were subjected to a ‘head tax,’ which premised the Chinese Exclusion Act that lasted until 1947.
“We must take responsibility for the actions of Canada’s past governments, and learn from their past mistakes while continuing to forge an inclusive and welcoming nation. As Prime Minister Harper put it, the Chinese Head Tax is ‘one that we are morally obligated to acknowledge.’
“On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I urge all Canadians to take this opportunity to rejoice and remember all the important contributions made by Chinese Canadians to the Canada we are all proud to call home.”