Vision In Canada, the month of May is officially recognized as Asian Heritage Month to acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. Since 1996, VAHMS has endeavoured to explore the diversity of Asian Canadian life and culture and promote the discussion of relevant issues and concerns within and beyond the Asian Canadian community. It organizes the popularl explorASIAN Festival in Metro Vancouver. Mission • Promote Canada’s understanding of Asian arts, culture and history • Develop a broad and inclusive definition of “Asian” in Canada • Create an environment of synergy and collaboration in our community Strategies • Invite the wider community to experience Asian-Canadian arts and culture through the explorASIAN festival. (experience) • Provide connections, advocacy and support for innovative projects that leave a lasting legacy. (outreach activity) • Document and publish an ongoing timeline of Asian-Canadian history. (legacy) • Lead a summit of Asian artists and arts organization to encourage communication and enhance interconnectedness of the arts and culture community. (networking) Who Introduced It? May 29, 2001 – Senator Vivienne Poy introduced it to the Canadian Senate, and seconded by Senator Pat Carney. Senators Sheila Finestone, Noel A. Kinsella, Nicholas W. Taylor and Laurier LaPierre spoke in favour of it. December, 2001- the Senate of Canada passed a motion officially designating May as Asian Heritage Month. Who Is Of Asian Descent? – East Asia – China, Hong Kong S.A.R., Japan, Mongolia, Korea, Taiwan. – South Asia – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. – Central Asia – Iran/Persia, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan. – Southeast Asia – Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam.