Canadian War Museum exhibition explores the experiences of Chinese Canadians who served during the Second World War

Ottawa, Ontario, May 23, 2012 — Through historical photographs, One War, Two Victories tells the stories of Chinese Canadians whose wartime service helped secure victory abroad and greater equality for the Chinese Canadian community at home. This exhibition is launched as part of Asian Heritage Month.

Prior to the Second World War, Chinese Canadians were denied fundamental rights, yet some 800 Chinese Canadians served in Canada’s military and with Allied Forces. Their service was a turning point in Chinese Canadian history and helped lead to the repeal of the Chinese Immigration Act—often called the Chinese Exclusion Act—and the return of the vote to all Chinese Canadians by 1947.

The exhibition presents fascinating stories of unforgettable men and women and their remarkable contributions to Canada in war and peace. Among them are the volunteers for Operation Oblivion, who trained to parachute behind enemy lines, and the three Jung brothers, Ross, Art, and Doug. Ross became a military doctor, Art became a pilot and Doug, who joined the army, would later become the first Chinese Canadian Member of Parliament.

“Chinese Canadians have made impressive and unforgettable contributions to Canada and the world, despite the obstacles they’ve had to overcome,” said James Whitham, Director General of the Canadian War Museum. “We are pleased to present this exhibition in partnership with the Chinese Canadian Military Museum.”

“We are grateful to share the stories, plight and struggles of these pioneer Chinese Canadians who helped make Canada a country of compassion and equality for all, regardless of colour, race, creed or ethnic origin,” added King Wan, President of the Chinese Canadian Military Museum.

One War, Two Victories will run from May 24, 2012 to January 6, 2013 in the Museum Lobby. The exhibition is organized by the Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society in partnership with the Canadian War Museum. It was made possible in part through a grant from the Community Historical Recognition Program.

The Canadian War Museum is Canada’s national museum of military history. Its mission is to promote public understanding of Canada’s military history in its personal, national, and international dimensions.

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