May 2, 2026
Kelowna, BC — The 2026 Asian Heritage Month celebrations in the Okanagan began with a dynamic Opening Forum that brought together more than 200 community members—Asian and non-Asian—reflecting the diversity and unity of the region. The event was hosted by the OCCA Communities Association at Trinity Church in Kelowna.
The forum provided a welcoming space for meaningful dialogue, cultural and historical displays, and community connection, highlighting the significant contributions of Asian communities across the Okanagan. This year’s theme, “Heritage as Social Capital,” guided conversations on how cultural roots and shared histories strengthen communities and foster a more inclusive future.
Distinguished guests in attendance included Nicole Rustad and Amarit Brar (on behalf of MP Stephen Fuhr), MLA Gavin Dew, Mayor Tom Dyas, and City Councillors Maxine DeHart, Mohini Singh, and Ron Cannan. Their participation underscored strong civic and community support for this important celebration.
Organizers also expressed deep appreciation to Elders Pamela Barnes and Grouse Barnes for their thoughtful, powerful and warm Territory Welcome. The forum was enriched by panel facilitator Denise Young and panelists Eric Li, Thi Dao, Peter Boyd, and Christine White-Davis-Kelly, who shared valuable insights, experiences, and leadership.
A key highlight was the official proclamation by Mayor Tom Dyas, declaring May as Asian Heritage Month in Kelowna. Organizers also acknowledged the recognition letter from MP Stephen Fuhr, to the Asian Heritage Okanagan Committee. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Asian Heritage Month in the Okanagan, a milestone that reflects the resilience, dedication, and growing impact of diverse Asian communities in the region.
“This 15th anniversary is not only a celebration of heritage, but also a reflection of how our diverse communities continue to grow stronger together,” said Fei Liu, Chair of the Asian Heritage Okanagan Committee. “Through events like this forum, we are creating space for dialogue, understanding, and shared leadership that will shape a more inclusive future.”
The program was guided by emcee Sarah Penton, whose professionalism ensured a smooth and engaging event.
Organizers extend sincere thanks to all attendees, supporters, and partners whose participation made the forum a success. The Asian Heritage Month 2026 hosting partners include the OCCA Communities Association, Okanagan Filipino Canadians Society (OFC), the Kelowna Japanese Language Society (KJLS), the Okanagan Korean Culture & Knowledge Society (OKCK), the Okanagan Sikh Temple, the Okanagan Regional Library, the Kelowna Art Gallery, the Kelowna Museums Society, and the National Film Board.
The Asian Heritage Okanagan Committee invites the public to take part in a series of events throughout May, celebrating culture, community, and connection across the region. Up-to-date event information can be found at https://occabc.ca/2026ahm/.
The event was made possible through the support of Canadian Heritage, the Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia, and the City of Kelowna.
AHM Opening 2026 - Group photo Shot by Keligraphic Studios
AHM 2026 Opening Panel Discussion shot by Keligraphic Studios
AHM Opening 2026-Displays-Shot by Franklin Li
Asian Heritage Month 2026 Highlights
-AHM Cabinet Display – Kelowna City Hall (April 8 – June 15)
-Asian Heritage Exhibition – Kelowna Downtown Library – May 1 – 31
-AHM Opening Forum – Trinity Church (Family Room) – May 2, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
-Genealogy 101 with Linda Yip – Online via Zoom – May 5, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
-AHM Movie Week – Okanagan Regional Library (Downtown) – May 11–14 (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) & May 15 (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
-Multicultural Family Sundays – Kelowna Art Gallery – May 3, 10, 17 & 24, 10:00 AM – 4:15 PM
-Kelowna’s Chinatown Tours – Okanagan Heritage Museum – May 16, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
-Kelowna Go Tournament – Super 8 Wyndham – May 30, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
-Multicultural Drumming Rehearsals – Kelowna Stuart Park – Weekends in May 20, June 7 & June 21 – 9:30 AM-10:30 AM
-Multicultural Community Showcase – Kelowna Event Centre (2041 Harvey Ave) – May 31 – 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Media Contact:
Kevin Chu, AHM Manager heritage@occabc.ca | 250-575-8561
Gary Jiao, Outreach Manager events@occabc.ca | 250-899-5298
More about 2026AHM
We respectfully acknowledge that the OCCA is operating on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Nation.
Please note that we will have a photographer on site during the events. If you prefer not to be featured in any photographs, kindly contact OCCA at info@occabc.ca.
