Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition and Conservative Party of Canada, Delivers Remarks Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Official Apology for the Chinese Head Tax

[Richmond, British Columbia] — Today, Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition and Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, delivered greetings and remarks to members of the Chinese community gathered in Richmond for a commemorative event marking the 20th anniversary of the Canadian federal government’s formal national apology for the Chinese Head Tax.

In June 2006, under former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the Government of Canada issued a historic apology in Parliament for the unjust “head tax” imposed on Chinese immigrants between 1885 and 1923, as well as the subsequent Chinese Exclusion Act. In his remarks, Poilievre recalled that, as a young Member of Parliament present at the time, he witnessed this long-overdue act of justice and personally congratulated Prime Minister Harper. Mr. Harper had described the head tax as a “serious injustice” rooted in racial discrimination, which ultimately led to the complete exclusion of Chinese immigrants.

Poilievre expressed deep respect and gratitude to Chinese Canadians. He noted that, despite facing significant hardships and historical injustices, Chinese Canadians have persevered with determination, making tremendous contributions and sacrifices to help build and strengthen Canada.

“You have embodied the best of what it means to be Canadian,” Poilievre said. “Your tireless hard work, your sense of service, strong family values, and respect for the rule of law — all these qualities have helped build businesses and strengthen communities from coast to coast. Despite hardships and adversities, your story has shown how success can come through hard work and determination.”

Today’s commemorative event in Richmond was hosted by Chak Au, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Richmond Centre–Marpole. Poilievre expressed his sincere appreciation and called on all Canadians to remember this important historical milestone while looking forward together with hope for a brighter future.

Poilievre concluded by emphasizing: “We are all Canadians, of all backgrounds, can build life through hard work here in the best country on earth.”