Home and Belonging in Chinatown

Last updated on
Friday, March 10th, 2023
Experience type: 
In-Person
Program Description

How did Chinese immigrant communities maintain a sense of identity and overcome the challenges of discrimination to settle in Vancouver’s Chinatown? How did they strive to create a sense of home and belonging? 

Students will explore these questions by engaging with our interactive exhibits and touchable teaching collection. By investigating historic photos, head tax certificates, cultural artefacts, and personal belongings, students will be introduced to discriminatory policies that define the Chinese Canadian experience as well as the community’s diligent efforts to overcome them.

Total length: 1 - 2 hours 

Grade levels: 4-6

Cost per student: $8 (1 adult chaperone per 5 students may visit for free)

Big Ideas
  • British Columbia followed a unique path in becoming a part of Canada.
  • The pursuit of valuable natural resources has played a key role in changing the land, people, and communities of Canada.
  • Canada’s policies and treatment of minority peoples have negative and positive legacies.
  • Immigration and multiculturalism continue to shape Canadian society and identity.
  • Media sources can both positively and negatively affect our understanding of important events and issues.
  • Systems of government vary in their respect for human rights and freedoms.
  • Trip Details
    City: 
    For Grades: 
    4, 5, 6
    Duration: 
    90 minutes unless otherwise stated.
    Maximum Students: 
    Offered In French: 
    No
    Also Offered For: 
    Adult Groups, Daycamps, ESL, Homeschool
    Packages Provided: 
    Both Pre-Visit and Post-Visit Packages
    Fee Details
    Cost Per Student: 
    $8.00
    Fee Notes: 

    1 adult chaperone per 5 students may visit for free

    Additional Notes

    Optional Add-On Activities

    1. Joint visit to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Classical Garden. We can help arrange a longer (2-3 hours) guided visit to Chinatown that includes a visit to the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, a short walking tour, and a visit to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Classical Garden. The itinerary is adaptable to fit your schedule and class size. For more information on pricing and booking, please contact April Liu, Manager of Public Programs and Education: april.liu@chinatownfoundation.org.
    2. Guided walking tours. A 30 - 60 minute guided walking tour may be added to your visit, highlighting Chinatown’s unique heritage and cultural sites along Pender Street. Additional cost: $8 per student, adult chaperones join for free.

    How to Sign Up: To book your next visit, please write to April Liu, Manager of Public Programs and Education, april.liu@chinatownfoundation.org.