News & Updates
Fraser Volunteer Association of Canada Presents Public Awareness Activities: Searching for the Path of Pioneer Chinese Immigrants' Gold Rush - 2023 Barkerville Self-Driving Tour
Mar 27, 2023
On March 27, the Fraser Volunteer Association of Canada (FVAC) held a meeting with Mr. Al Richmond, Chairman of the Barkerville Heritage Trust, and Ms. Kate Cox, CEO of Barkerville Historic Town and Park, to discuss the upcoming public awareness activities, "Searching for the Path of Pioneer Chinese Immigrants' Gold Rush - 2023 Barkerville Self-Driving Tour." The initiative aims to encourage Greater Vancouver residents to explore the history and culture of Barkerville during the town's tourist season.
Barkerville, a historic town, served as a gathering place for the first Chinese laborers in Canada over a century ago. Today, it boasts well-preserved historical artifacts and century-old buildings. Vicky Zhang, President of the Fraser Volunteer Association of Canada, shared that Barkerville is one of FVAC's plans for this year, with the event scheduled for September. The Association hopes to raise funds for Barkerville through the self-drive tour while educating participants about the journey of the early Chinese pioneers.
Al Richmond, Chairman of the Barkerville Heritage Trust, highlighted the importance of recognizing Chinese immigrants in British Columbia's history. The Trust's goal is to improve the interpretation of various cultures within the community and restore the town's Chinatown to better reflect its appearance during the 1800s.
Kate Cox, CEO of Barkerville Historic Town and Park, emphasized that Barkerville is a welcoming and inclusive place, known as the "Valley of the Flags." She invited everyone to visit the historic town this year as part of the public awareness activities.
Marshall, Secretary-General of the Fraser Volunteer Association of Canada, added that FVAC will continue to offer multicultural activities, including the Barkerville self-drive tour and camps for children. All donations collected will be given directly to Barkerville's local government to support the construction of museums and historical buildings.
Artist Wang Xiaobao spoke about the significance of the event, expressing hope that following in the footsteps of early pioneers, participants will contribute to building a better Canada.
Finally, Lynette, a volunteer representative of the Fraser Volunteer Association of Canada, said that the Barkerville public awareness activities would facilitate multicultural exchange and promote a sense of pride among the Chinese community. She expressed her honor in being able to engage in dialogue and learning.
For more information about the Fraser Volunteer Association, please visit our website or contact us at info@fraservolunteer.ca.