Jarvis CI Celebrates Asian Heritage Month

On April 27, Jarvis CI launched its celebration of Asian Heritage Month with the school's first annual assembly. Over 26 of the 50 Asian countries recognized by the United Nations are represented in Jarvis CI's student body.

Olivia Chow, MP, Trinity-Spadina and an alumnus of Jarvis CI, was the event's keynote speaker. She encouraged the students to find their own identity as this is a challenge that many young people face. Ms. Chow also participated as a guest of honour during Riverdale CI’s Lion Dance performance by hanging a head of lettuce as an offering to the lions. Following Chinese New Year customs, lions travelled from place to place looking for green vegetables, such as lettuce, which could be found hanging above the doors of homes and businesses. Hidden within the leaves were red packets of money. The lions ate the lettuce and red packets of money, and then scattered the lettuce leaves to symbolize a fresh start for the new year and the spreading of good luck. 

The crowd roared with excitement during the Lion Dance performance. Students and staff were also entertained by performances from Jarvis’ own students, including a feature piece played on an authentic Chinese Pipa. Even the MCs were dressed in authentic Asian clothing! Jarvis CI students cannot wait to participate in the many events offered by the TDSB to celebrate Asian Heritage Month.