A new exhibit at the Mah Society of Edmonton, entitled The Journey of the Horse, explores over a century of Chinese-Canadian history. Created by Sue Mah and Andrea Maru, the exhibit highlights the struggles and successes of early Chinese settlers in Canada during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The title of the exhibit is a play on words, using the Chinese surname ‘Mah,’ which means ‘horse.’ It depicts the journey of these men and women as they crossed the Pacific to Canada, faced discrimination and racism, and built businesses to make a living, as they were not allowed to be professionals.
The Mah Society of Edmonton was established in 1917 as a support group for Chinese men who had to leave their families behind when they immigrated to Canada. Many of these men were railroad workers with last names such as Mah, Ma, or Mar. The society aimed to combat loneliness, foster camaraderie, and create a sense of family among the new immigrants. Chinese immigrants to Canada endured various barriers, including the imposition of a head tax between 1885 and 1923, which restricted immigration based on ethnic background. The tax, which started at $50 and eventually rose to $500, made it difficult for many men to bring their families over to Canada.
The Chinese Immigration Act of 1923, also known as the Chinese Exclusion Act, further prohibited Chinese immigrants from entering Canada until it was repealed in 1947. In 2006, the Canadian government apologized for the head tax and other racist immigration policies targeting Chinese individuals. Hoy Sein Mah, now 90 years old, immigrated to Canada from China in 1950 and recalls the challenges he faced adapting to the cold Canadian weather and feeling isolated as one of the few Chinese youth in Edmonton at the time. He eventually assimilated into Canadian culture, learning English and sharing his journey with others.
Sue Mah, who immigrated to Edmonton from China at a young age, reflects on her family’s history and the struggles her ancestors faced. She aims to educate others about Chinese history and culture through the exhibit, while also revitalizing interest in Chinatown and promoting understanding among the broader community concerning the positive aspects of the neighborhood. The exhibit serves as a place for Chinese elders to reminisce, new generations to learn about their heritage, and all visitors to understand the history and contributions of Chinese immigrants in Canada.
Despite the challenges and discrimination faced by Chinese immigrants in the past, many were able to successfully integrate into Canadian society once their families joined them. Sue Mah’s own experience of growing up in Canada and reconnecting with her Chinese roots later in life exemplifies this process of adaptation and cultural exploration. The exhibit at the Mah Society of Edmonton aims to preserve history, educate the public about the Chinese experience in Canada, and foster a sense of community and understanding across generations and cultures.
The exhibit showcases the resilience, perseverance, and contributions of Chinese immigrants to Canada, highlighting their struggles, achievements, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Through storytelling, artifacts, and interactive displays, visitors can learn about the journey of early Chinese settlers, the challenges they faced, and the lasting impact of their experiences on future generations. By sharing these stories, the Mah Society of Edmonton hopes to create a greater awareness and appreciation for the Chinese-Canadian community and promote a sense of unity and diversity within the society.
