November 24, 2009
MLA Lee Celebrates Chinese Associations

VICTORIA – Burnaby North MLA Richard T. Lee celebrated local Chinese associations in the Legislature yesterday. He delivered his remarks after attending the 70th anniversary celebration of the Yue Shan Society in Vancouver.

“Nearly one thousand British Columbians originating from the County of Panyu, now part of Guangzhou, their friends and community leaders came out to a gala dinner to celebrate this auspicious occasion,” said Lee. “Guangzhou is Vancouver’s sister city and the capital city of BC’s sister province, Guangdong China.

“There are many other county associations in the Chinese Canadian community. The Shon Yee Benevolent Association was formed in 1914 to help people from Zhongshan County, the birthplace of the founder of the Republic of China, Dr. SUN Yat Sen.

“Sometimes several societies were established from the same county to further differentiate interests,” said Lee “Also from Zhongshan County are the Vancouver Zhongshan Alliance Association, Vancouver Zhongshan Secondary School Alumni Association, Zhongshan Hoo Tow Society, Zhongshan Lung Jen Benevolent Association and Hang Mei Society.

“Many family or clan societies contribute to the community as well, including the Chin Wing Chun Tong Society, Lee’s Association of Canada, Wong’s Benevolent Association, Cheung’s Association, Mah’s Society, Leung’s Benevolent Association and Yee Fong Toy Society.

“Members of this House may be familiar with some larger organizations, which embrace the entire community, for example, SUCCESS, the Chinese Benevolent Association of Vancouver and the Chinese Cultural Center,” said Lee. “However, many more Chinese Canadian business, athletic, recreational and service clubs can be found all over BC, especially in Metro Vancouver.

“I would like to ask the House to join me in recognizing the hundreds of Chinese Canadian non-profit organizations for their contributions to our province’s economy, trade, culture, social service and charity,” concluded Lee.

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