Beginning in early 1916, over 200 Japanese Canadian recruits began military training in Vancouver. This was a time when the Japanese in Canada had no right to vote, and yet they felt called to serve the country they identified as their home. Over 222 soldiers from the Japanese Canadian Volunteer Corps fought in the Canadian Expeditionary Forces, participating in the major battles of the Somme, Vimy Ridge, Lens, Avion, Hill 70, Passchendaele, Amiens, Arras, Cambrai, Denain, Valenciennes, Mons. Fifty-five were killed or died of their wounds. Only six came home uninjured.  Letters from the front describe the exemplary and fearless fighting of Japanese Canadians who won thirteen military medals for bravery. Despite demonstrated loyalty to Canada, these veterans were still denied the vote until 1931. As well, during the Second World War, their military service was ignored and they were included in the mass internment of Japanese Canadians. This exhibition commemorates the 100^th anniversary of the loyalty, dedication, courage, and commitment to a better Canada from the early community of Nikkei in Canada.
Exhibit opening reception: October 8, 3pm.
Photo: Japanese Canadians of the Fighting Tenth Battalion, ca. 1916. NNM 2010.23.2.4.551