Poilievre Issues Statement on Head Tax Apology Anniversary, Pays Tribute to Chinese History；AOCC Roundtable Focuses on Community Safety and Fairness
On June 22, 2025, the Alliance of Chinese Canadians (AOCC) successfully held a roundtable discussion in Toronto themed "Community Safety and Historical Justice." The event, which combined online and in-person formats, attracted active participation from many community members concerned with Chinese affairs. Two federal Members of Parliament, Michael Ma and Vincent Ho, as well as former MP, Conservative Party Chief Whip, and Chair of the AOCC Advisory board, Kerry-Lynne Findlay, were invited to attend and discuss issues such as public safety, drug policy, and the rights of Chinese Canadians.
The meeting began with MP Michael Ma reading a statement from Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre commemorating the anniversaries of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper's apology for the “Chinese Head Tax”. In the statement, Poilievre highly affirmed the contributions of Chinese Canadians to the nation-building of Canada and reiterated the Conservative Party's commitment to defending diversity and equality to build a "country where anyone, regardless of their origin, can make something of themselves." The statement was met with a warm response, highlighting the Conservative Party's commitment to historical justice.
The second part of the meeting focused on the current public safety situation. In response to the rising crime rates in recent years, participants called for judicial reform and a tightening of the bail system to more effectively combat violent and property crimes. At the same time, they emphasized strengthening anti-fraud education and law enforcement, particularly to protect seniors from telephone and online scams.
Subsequently, the meeting addressed the issue of rampant drug use. Participants generally opposed the drug "decriminalization" policy implemented by the Liberal Party, arguing that it encourages drug use and endangers community safety. The two MPs clearly stated that the policy should be rescinded, "safe injection sites" should be closed, and mandatory treatment should be used to help addicts reintegrate into society.
This meeting not only strengthened the interaction between the Conservative Party and the Chinese community but also provided a platform for community members to express their concerns and offer suggestions. The AOCC stated that it will continue to focus on major community issues, consolidate the voice of the Chinese community, and work together to build a safer, more just, and inclusive Canada.
