In a significant step towards celebrating the rich and diverse heritage of South Asian communities in British Columbia, the India Cultural Association (ICA) of Vancouver is organizing a community engagement session on September 29, 2024. Supported by the Province of British Columbia, these sessions aim to involve the public in shaping the future of a proposed Museum or Cultural Centre dedicated to Canadians of South Asian heritage.
A Unique Opportunity to Have Your Say
The community engagement session provide an invaluable platform for members of the South Asian community to contribute their ideas, opinions, and visions for this new cultural institution. Participants will be asked to explore and discuss several key questions that will guide the planning and development of the space, including:
- What should the name of this Museum or Cultural Centre be?
Names are powerful symbols, often encapsulating the identity and purpose of a place. The chosen name will need to resonate with the community and reflect the center’s role in preserving and promoting South Asian culture. - Where should it be located?
Location is crucial to accessibility and visibility. Should it be in a bustling city center, close to South Asian communities, or perhaps in a cultural district? - What kind of space should it be?
This discussion will address the type of environment that would best serve the community’s needs. Should the space focus on exhibitions, education, or performance art? Would it include event venues, libraries, or gathering places for cultural celebrations?
These kind of sessions are more than just forums—they are an active collaboration between the Province, ICA Vancouver, and the public, aimed at fostering a space that authentically represents the heritage, contributions, and stories of South Asians in British Columbia.
Why Your Voice Matters
British Columbia is home to one of the largest South Asian populations in Canada, and this museum or cultural center will serve as a permanent testament to the community’s enduring legacy and influence. Your input will help shape a space that not only preserves the past but also celebrates the present and inspires the future. These sessions are a rare opportunity to ensure that the diverse voices within the South Asian community are reflected in this important project.
Whether you are passionate about heritage, involved in the arts, or simply a community member with ideas to share, your participation will be vital to creating a cultural hub that future generations can be proud of.
Looking Ahead
The India Cultural Association of Vancouver is proud to contribute in this effort, with the support of the Province of British Columbia. Together, we hope to create a space that will serve as a center for learning, celebration, and cultural exchange for Canadians of South Asian heritage and beyond.
Join us for an exciting engagement session, where your voice will help shape the future of South Asian culture in British Columbia. Keep an eye on our social media channels and website for more details on upcoming sessions, locations, and how you can be involved
Register at Eventbrite to attend the session.
