Mr. Speaker, I am among the 20% of Canadians who were born outside of this country. I am proud to be Canadian, and also deeply proud of my Asian heritage, so it brings me great joy to rise today in celebration of Asian Heritage Month.
Each May we recognize those of Asian origin who have made Canada their home and the valuable contributions they make to our country's political, social and economic culture.
Let us acknowledge that the landscape of this country is richer because of its diversity, because of Canadians who hail from every continent.
Two weeks ago, the Conservative government announced it will now take longer and cost more for Canadians born abroad to reunite with beloved family members—children with grandparents, adult children with their own parents—in direct contradiction to what New Democrats believe makes a strong Canada: families, communities, loved ones nearby.
In honour of Asian Heritage Month, I pledge my commitment to fight these changes and to fight for families, communities and our strong, beautiful Canada.