This week East Asian communities in British Columbia and across Canada will celebrate Lunar New Year, which also marks the commencement of the Year of the Tiger.
Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival and is one of the most important holidays for members of the Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese communities, as well as many East Asian communities around the world. In many Chinese communities, you’ll hear the greeting Kung Hei Fat Choi (Cantonese) 恭喜发财 – meaning Wish You Prosperity and Good Fortune!
Families and friends will commonly gather for the occasion and participate in celebrations, including feasts and parades. Festivities may be different this year due to public health restrictions, but the lessons we draw from the tiger – a symbol of strength and braveness – will help us navigate through challenging times.
In our Quality of Life Framework, BCCPA promotes the acknowledgment of historical and culturally significant dates such as Lunar New Year as part of providing person-centred care. We encourage our members to make reference to the Framework as a way to create more supportive environments and by recognizing the importance of cultural diversity.
Lunar New Year celebrations also provide a chance to learn more about East Asian culture and heritage on display in many Canadian communities.
From our staff and our board of directors at BC Care Providers Association and EngAge BC, we wish good health, happiness, and prosperity to everyone celebrating.
