Joyce Leung noticed a lack of a strong Chinese community in Hamilton when she moved there in 2019. She had previously lived in areas like Markham and Mississauga, which had vibrant Chinese communities centered around Chinatowns, plazas, and cultural organizations. Feeling the absence of such a community in Hamilton, Leung decided to take action.
Despite the absence of a formal Chinatown in Hamilton, efforts had been made in the past to establish one. Discussions among local business leaders and politicians about creating a Chinatown downtown were documented in archived Hamilton Spectator articles. However, these efforts never fully materialized, leaving Hamilton without an official Chinatown district.
In response to this void, Joyce Leung founded the Hamilton Chinese Association, a grassroots organization that hosts cultural events and celebrations to promote Chinese culture in the city. The association has gained popularity, attracting diverse members keen on embracing and sharing Chinese heritage.
Solomon Ngan, a long-time Hamilton resident, highlighted the presence of a small yet active Chinese community in the city, supported by various establishments like restaurants and grocery stores. While Hamilton lacks a designated Chinatown, Ngan emphasized the community’s resilience in creating spaces for connection and unity.
Amy Go, president of the Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice, noted that Hamilton’s experience mirrors that of many other Canadian cities where Chinatowns have either faded or never fully emerged. She emphasized the importance of community resilience in preserving cultural identities and supporting each other in the face of challenges.
Arlene Chan, a Toronto historian, underlined the significance of Chinatowns as more than just physical spaces but as vital hubs of heritage and history for Chinese immigrants. In Hamilton, efforts to document and preserve the city’s Chinese history are ongoing, with newer initiatives like the Hamilton Chinese Association continuing the legacy of community building and cultural celebration.
Despite the absence of a formal Chinatown, Hamilton’s Chinese community remains vibrant and active, with individuals like Joyce Leung and Solomon Ngan playing pivotal roles in fostering a sense of unity and celebration of Chinese culture within the city. The dedication to preserving and sharing Chinese heritage through community initiatives underscores the enduring spirit of connection that defines Chinatowns across Canada.