Monument honouring Chinese legacy unveiled in Barkerville

The contributions of Chinese Canadians to B.C.’s cultural, historical and economic mosaic were celebrated Sunday when a commemorative plaque was unveiled in Barkerville.

Cast in bronze, it will be mounted beside the historic site’s Chinatown archway.

In a statement, Minister Responsible for Asia Pacific Strategy and Multiculturalism Teresa Wat said the plaque “beautifully preserves the 2014 apology made in the legislature for historic wrongs committed against Chinese Canadians by past provincial governments.

“It also signifies the important role B.C.’s Chinese community has played in shaping British Columbia into the great province it is today.”

Ray Hong, a descendent of Barkerville Chinese Canadian pioneers, welcomed the installation.

“As a third-generation descendent of Barkerville, I am pleased that a permanent reminder of the sacrifices and contributions made by Chinese British Columbians, including my father, Wong Mon ‘Bill’ Hong, to the building of our province will be established in Barkerville for all visitors to read and observe,” he said in the statement.

It is the fifth in a series of up to 15 markers – interpretive signs, plaques and monuments – that will be established in communities throughout B.C. in coming months.