Chinese Canadian Museum Unveils New Military Exhibition
The Chinese Canadian Museum in Vancouver, in collaboration with the Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society, has unveiled their new military exhibition “A Soldier for All Seasons“.
Curated by Catherine Clement, Naomi Louie, Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee, and Sarah Ling, the exhibition marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War and highlights the powerful stories of Chinese Canadian men and women who served in every branch of the armed forces—despite being denied full citizenship. Their service at home and abroad helped challenge discrimination and reshape Canada’s path toward equality.
This exhibition brings their stories to life like never before, with rare photos, immersive design, and a groundbreaking 3D holobox that lets visitors hear directly from Chinese Canadian actors retelling the powerful experiences of wartime soldiers.
Chinese Canadian Museum Unveils New Military Exhibition
- Dates: Wednesday to Sunday (and statutory Mondays) 10:00am to 5:00pm
- Location: 51 E Pender St, Vancouver
- Tickets: Available online or in person
“Our mission is to ensure Chinese Canadian veterans are never forgotten,” says Randall (Bud) Wong, President of the Chinese Canadian Military Museum and retired B.C. Supreme Court Judge and Chinese Canadian Museum Board member. “This exhibition with the Chinese Canadian Museum helps share their stories of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for belonging in Canada.”
A Soldier for All Seasons is located on the newly expanded and renovated third floor of the Chinese Canadian Museum. This powerful exhibition shares the heartfelt and often overlooked stories of Chinese Canadian soldiers who risked their lives to serve a country that, at the time, regarded them as “second-class” citizens. Their sacrifices were instrumental in prompting the Canadian government to repeal the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1947 – marking a critical step toward full citizenship and equal rights for Chinese Canadians.
“These were men and women who risked everything for a country that did not yet recognize them as equals,” says Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee, CEO of the Chinese Canadian Museum. “Their bravery and sacrifice challenged deep-seated discrimination and helped lay the foundation for lasting change. It was through their service that the Chinese Exclusion Act was eventually repealed, and Chinese Canadians were finally acknowledged as full citizens. This exhibition honours their legacy and ensures their stories are remembered.”
At the exhibition entrance, a commemorative artwork by Vancouver artist Jeanette G. Lee – niece of a Second World War veteran – honours Chinese Canadians who served in the World Wars. Through the Looking Screen features engraved names of known soldiers, offering a poignant tribute to their sacrifice and legacy.
The first of its kind in Canada, the Chinese Canadian Museum opened to the public in 2023, and is located in the historic Wing Sang Building in Vancouver Chinatown. For more information about the Chinese Canadian Museum and its current exhibitions, follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
