The Canadian city of Burnaby has issued a landmark formal apology for systemic discrimination against people of Chinese descent, addressing injustices spanning from 1892 to 1947. Mayor Mike Hurley delivered the apology during a special council meeting on November 15, 2025, acknowledging how municipal policies once barred Chinese Canadians from voting, land ownership, and municipal employment.
Confronting Exclusionary Policies
The apology follows a two-year review of historical bylaws that targeted the community through business restrictions and employment bans. Three outdated ordinances were officially repealed during the session, symbolizing Burnaby's commitment to rectifying past wrongs. "Our actions made life harder for them and for all community members of Chinese descent," Hurley stated, praising the resilience of those who built farms, railways, and businesses despite institutional barriers.
From Words to Action
Burnaby's reconciliation plan includes cultural competency training for city staff and educational initiatives highlighting Chinese Canadian contributions. The apology, available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, emphasizes tangible change over symbolism. This move aligns with broader efforts across Canada to address historical discrimination, particularly targeting Asian communities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
