Surrey and Vancouver compete to host B.C.’s South Asian Canadians Museum, each city highlighting its cultural legacy and community ties.
Two Cities, One Dream: Who Will Host B.C.’s South Asian Museum?
The race is heating up between Surrey and Vancouver, both eager to be the proud home of British Columbia’s first museum celebrating South Asian Canadians. What started as a provincial promise has turned into a passionate contest between two cities rich in history, culture, and community pride.
Surrey Steps Forward With Strong Support
Last December, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke took a bold step, publicly championing her city as the ideal site for the museum—officially named the Canadians of South Asian Heritages Museum and Cultural Centre.
Her push gained momentum in July when a City of Surrey petition cited the provincial “What We Heard” engagement report, showing Surrey as the top choice among participants.
According to the report, Surrey stood out for its large South Asian community, its accessibility from nearby cities like Burnaby and Abbotsford, and its affordable land availability compared to downtown Vancouver. Residents also pointed to the city’s bustling South Asian markets, restaurants, and cultural landmarks as reasons why Surrey feels like the natural home for the museum.
Vancouver Makes a Powerful Case
Not to be outdone, Vancouver has entered the ring with a compelling pitch of its own.
“Our city is uniquely positioned to host this landmark institution,” said Mayor Ken Sim on Wednesday, October 15. “As the historic heart of South Asian settlement in B.C., and one of Canada’s top destinations, Vancouver is the perfect place to celebrate these remarkable stories.”
In fact, Vancouver’s deep roots in South Asian history make a strong case. The city was among the first places South Asian immigrants settled in B.C., home to North America’s first community-owned Gurdwara and the vibrant Punjabi Market—often called “North America’s first Little India.”
Adding weight to its proposal, Vancouver’s city council passed a 2024 motion pledging to fund one-third of the capital costs, including land acquisition, pending a project review.
A Promise from the Past, a Decision for the Future
The idea of a South Asian heritage museum first appeared during the 2020 B.C. election campaign, when the BC NDP vowed to build a facility in Surrey dedicated to South Asian history.
Fast forward to today, and both cities are passionately making their case. Vancouver highlights its historical significance, while Surrey emphasizes its modern cultural heartbeat and strong community base.
The B.C. government is expected to announce next steps soon, though no timeline has been set. The engagement report hinted that more work is needed before finalizing the museum’s vision, mission, and location.
The Heart of Heritage Awaits
Whether the museum rises in Surrey’s dynamic core or Vancouver’s historic heart, one thing is certain—it will stand as a powerful symbol of South Asian resilience, culture, and contribution in British Columbia.
For now, all eyes are on the province, as two cities wait to see who will be chosen to tell this incredible story to the world.
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