Stories

The Chinese Canadian journey reflects every person’s need to belong. Every story we share demonstrates the strength we all possess when we feel accepted in a community.

Our Stories

Robert H. N. Ho Living Legacy Project

The Robert H. N. Ho Living Legacy Project captures and shares the personal stories that exemplify the spirit of Chinatown—resilient, courageous, and enterprising. "Our Stories" is a collection of biographies highlighting individuals and organizations who have played a significant role in breaking barriers for the Chinese Canadian community and beyond.

Delivering Thousands of “Chung Babies”

Dr. Madeline Chung
According to her meticulous records and notes, Madeline Chung delivered 7,226 babies during her career as BC’s first woman gynecologist....
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A Tireless Community Stalwart

Harry Con
Just as the Chinese Freemason-owned building at the corner of Pender and Columbia stands as a Chinatown bedrock, so too does the life ...
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Lawyer for the People

Andrew Joe
Admired for his quick mind and oratorical skills, Andy Way Yin Joe was BC’s first Chinese Canadian lawyer and Canada’s second. The Victoria-born Joe studied law after serving in the […]
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Community Stories

Personal stories told by the community about specific memories, objects, or people that shaped who they are today. 

Stories tell us who we once were, who we are today, and who we can become. The stories shared here uncover the values passed down from one generation to the next and preserve our cultural heritage. When we share these stories, we uncover the reasons why we can look at each other and see our community.

Volunteer Story

Penny Tham
“I’m doing work about something I really care about, and it’s probably one of the most important things I’ve ever done in my life.”
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Homage to my father and relatives.

Sue Yew Ming
In 1948 my father Sue Yew Ming and his two brothers, two nephews and a close relatives went to ...
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Canada Chinese Head Tax

Low Quon Sun
Our father came to Canada January 17, 1919. At that time the Canadian government required a head tax of $500.
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Dinner Time

Megan Kwan
Food has always been my connection to my Chinese roots. Born and raised here in suburban British Columbia ...
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"Pay Me Later"

Mamie Fung
“My father always had a car. He drove people around and he delivered things. But more or less he translate[d] for anybody...
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Modernize Tailors

Bill Wong and Mia Wu
“I was here with Bill, my mentor, every day for six years until the day that he passed. I met my husband while I was ...
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Share Your Story

Help us celebrate your rich history by sharing your connection to Vancouver’s Chinatown or Chinese Canadian Culture.
Submit Your Story
Tong Louie and his younger brother, Willis.

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