Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Liberal MPs Celebrate Lunar New Year with Asian Communities

On February 12th , Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, along with 41 Liberal Members of Parliament, attended a vibrant Lunar New Year reception at the historic Sir John A. Macdonald Building on Parliament Hill. The event brought together community leaders, dignitaries, and Canadians of Asian heritage from across the country to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Dragon.

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In his remarks, the Prime Minister highlighted the progress made by our government to improve health care access, build a strong economy, and get more homes build faster. He also took the opportunity to praise the resilience of Asian Canadians and reaffirm our government’s commitment to diversity and equity.

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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Liberal MPs will continue to work closely with Asian communities in this Year of the Dragon. In Canada, diversity is fact, but inclusion is a choice. Our team will remain focused on building a strong and inclusive economy that serves all Canadians.

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This reception was co-hosted by Jean Yip, Member of Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt and Chair of the Liberal Chinese Caucus, and Emmanuella Lambropoulos, Member of Parliament for Saint-Laurent. Minister Mary Ng, Minister Anita Anand, Minister Randy Boissonnault, Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Minister Steven Guilbeault, Minister Ahmed Hussen, Minister Kamal Khera, Minister Jenna Sudds, and Minister Rechie Valdez also gave remarks at the reception. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland, Minister Anandasangaree, Minister Miller, and Minister Virani were also in attendance.

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Quotes "Lunar New Year marks a special time of year for East Asian communities across Canada and around the world. It’s a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate - sharing traditions and enjoying each other's company. From festive feasts to parades, in 2024 we welcome the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing fortune and good leadership. As generations of communities join in celebrating this year of luck and good health, it is also an opportunity for us to recognize the ongoing contributions that millions of Asian Canadians to our country."

- The Hon. Mary Ng, MP for Markham-Thornhill and Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development

 “As we gather to celebrate the Year of the Dragon, it is an honour to join all of you here. I am excited that so many of my friends from Markham are here. In the true spirit of Canada, let us come together to appreciate the rich tradition and culture that make our country so vibrant. I would like to wish everyone a prosperous, harmonious Year of the Dragon.” – Paul Chiang, Member of Parliament for Markham-Unionville, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“It is absolutely wonderful to see so many of you from across Canada, from Vancouver to Halifax, from coast to coast to coast. We gather to celebrate a time of renewal, unity, and hope. This evening is a reflection of our vibrant cultural heritage and enduring traditions that define our community.” – Jean Yip, Member of Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt and Chair of the Liberal Chinese Caucus

“The Year of the Wood Dragon brings us strength and prosperity. Across the country, Lunar New Year festivities are taking place to the beat of drums and the traditional lion dance. Through the eye-dotting ceremony, the lion is awakened from its sleep, then given lettuce as a symbol of good fortune for all Canadians.” – Shaun Chen, Member of Parliament for Scarborough North

“The Spring Festival and Lunar New Year are significant and cherished for many of us with Asian heritage. As we celebrate this vibrant tradition and culture of Asian communities in Canada and around the world, I would like to convey my sincere wishes to all Asian-Canadians for a successful, prosperous, and healthy Year of the Dragon!” – Wilson Miao, Member of Parliament for Richmond Centre

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