Here’s why Oakville Town Hall is lit red tonight

Oakville Town Hall will be lit up in red Friday evening (June 23) to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Enactment of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1923 in Canada.

The Chinese Immigration act, as it is also known, virtually restricted for decades all Chinese immigration to Canada before it was repealed in 1947.

The impact of the act has spanned generations and continues to impact Chinese Canada today.

It was the culmination of anti-Chinese racism and policies, including the head taxes which it replaced.

According to the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, all Chinese persons living in Canada, even those born here, had to register with the government or risk fines, detainment, or deportation.

The Act impeded family reunification, community development, social integration, and economic equality. Chinese Canadian men and women successfully challenged this law, leading to its repeal in 1947.

“We celebrate the contributions of our Chinese community in Oakville and Canada,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton in a tweet. “Our community stands against racism.”