Asian Heritage
Toronto Public Library presents a free and diverse celebration of Asian culture. From author talks to film screenings and musical performances, enjoy a variety of specially-designed events, programs and activities for all ages to experience and celebrate the broad diversity of Asian heritage and culture. Toronto Public Library also celebrates Asian Heritage Month each May.
Upcoming Events
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In My View: Resilience, Art and Migration
Mon May 17, 2021 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
A panel of celebrated cultural leaders and award-winning artists come together to discuss how they've navigated and succeeded in the world of performing arts and how resilience has enabled them to adapt. Featuring Romeo Candido, Ming-Bo Lam, Miriam Fernandes and moderator Jasmine Chen.
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Leo Chan: Once Upon a Time in Chinatown
Wed May 26, 2021 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Professor Leo Chan tells the story of how Chinese food in Toronto became so complex and varied, and walks us through the history of Chinese influence on key parts of Toronto when regional cuisines of China became more readily accessible, available and mainstream.
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More Than Just Chinese Food with Author and Chef Trevor Lui
Wed May 26, 2021 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
A self-described 'accidental chef', Trevor Lui spent over 20 years producing thousands of event experiences and as an executive for major entertainment venues and has helped co-create and develop some of Toronto's foremost food brands and restaurants.
Live and On-Demand Events
Check out upcoming Live & Online events and watch replays of past events you may have missed on the TPL Culture channel on Crowdcast, including these featured Asian Heritage conversations.
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Asian Heritage: Thieving, Grieving and Leaving: New Fiction of Displacement
Writers Susie Yang, Alexandra Chang and Steph Cha speak with CBC Arts journalist and podcast producer Aparita Bhandari about their new novels that each centre around adapting to a new or changing world.
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Asian Heritage: A Spiritual Quest through the Creation of Poetry
Poet and author Lien Chao reads from her latest collection of bilingual poetry, Salt in My Life, and talks about the spiritual quest of the poet. In conversation with York University Professor of Humanities, Leslie Sanders.
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Asian Heritage: Chinese Festivals and Food - Mid-Autumn Festival
Professor Chef Leo Chan talks about the origin, folklore and history of The Mid-Autumn Festival, sometimes called the Moon Festival, a celebration that showcases the culinary and cultural traditions of the Chinese community.
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Asian Heritage: Ocean Vuong: On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous
American poet, essayist and novelist Ocean Vuong talks about the writing and reception of his bestselling debut novel, On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous, in conversation with acclaimed poet Souvankham Thammavongsa.
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Asian Heritage: Art and Haiku In the Time of COVID
Poet Patria Rivera reads from haiku written before the Covid-19 pandemic and revised during the months of lockdown, and Joe Rivera shares the artwork he has painted to counter months of self-quarantine. Their hope is that transcendent sketching from life can bring heightened awareness or capture the sublime even in uncertain times.
Reading Lists
- 2021 Asian Heritage Reading List for Adults
- 2021 Asian Heritage Reading List for Teens
- 2021 Asian Heritage Reading List for Children
- Stop Asian Hate: Recommended Reading
- 2020 Asian Heritage Reading List for Adults