A Legacy of Unity
Four Decades of Community. One Shared Canadian Identity.
Jimmy Chan and the History of Chinese Canadian Participation in Montreal's Canada Day Parade
The Chinese community's dragon float, Canada Day Parade, Montréal, July 1, 2016. Photo: Angela Chan & Jonathan Chan.
For decades, Montreal community leader Jimmy Chan has helped bring Chinese Canadian families, cultural associations, performers, and volunteers together to celebrate Canada Day.
Through his longstanding involvement in Montreal's Canada Day Parade, Chan has promoted cultural heritage, multicultural participation, community pride, and the shared identity of Canadians from diverse backgrounds.
His story is part of a larger history of communities coming together to celebrate Canada.
What this archive documents
01
Cultural representation
Lion dancers, dragon dancers and drummers bringing Chinese traditions to Montreal's national celebration.
02
Families & newcomers
Encouraging new Chinese immigrants to take part as proud Chinese Canadians.
03
A collective effort
Jimmy Chan has led associations, volunteers, performers and families in a shared community story.
Featured story
Canada Day Parade 2016
More than 680 participants from many Chinese cultural associations marched in Section B, leading the parade — with Jimmy Chan on the big dragon drum.
Read the 2016 featureIn the news
Coverage and references
Montreal Independent Film Magazine
Saving Chinatown – Our Heritage. Our Legend. The ImpactLa Presse Chinoise
華僑時報 — Canada Day parade, drumming celebration and dragon boat racing (2019)CityNews Montreal
Montreal Chinatown Drumming Festival marks 5th anniversary with celebration of culture and unity
2027
Continuing the Spirit of Unity
Jimmy Chan is involved in the revival of Montreal's historic Canada Day Parade for July 1, 2027, working with other community leaders to bring back a celebration cherished in Montreal for over four decades. His vision is to bring all communities and all immigrants together to celebrate culture, heritage, diversity and inclusion.
Jimmy Chan remains committed to the values that have guided his community work for decades: cultural pride, inclusion, volunteerism, and bringing people together.
The next chapter offers an opportunity to celebrate Montreal's diverse communities and encourage new generations to participate in shared Canadian traditions.