THE Province of British Columbia and the City of Surrey are taking the next step toward advancing a provincial museum honouring Canadians of South Asian heritages through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU).
“Canadians of South Asian heritages have made extraordinary contributions to British Columbia’s social, cultural, economic and political development for generations,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, on Friday. “Their stories, achievements and contributions are an important part of our province’s success, past and present. This agreement is an important step toward creating a place where people can learn about, celebrate and connect with these stories for years to come.”
The MOU sets out how the Province and the City will work together on the next phase of planning. This includes exploring options for the museum, identifying potential sites, spaces and support mechanisms, further engaging with communities and developing implementation plans.
The museum project builds on public engagement, planning work and ongoing conversations with communities and stakeholders. Community voices will continue to play an important role in shaping the museum and ensuring it reflects the diverse histories, cultures, languages and experiences of Canadians of South Asian heritage throughout British Columbia.
“There is no better place than Surrey for a museum dedicated to Canadians of South Asian heritages,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “With nearly 40% of Surrey’s population identifying with South Asian heritages, these communities have deep and significant stories that deserve to be preserved, celebrated and shared. I sincerely thank the provincial government for choosing Surrey and advancing this important project. The success of this museum will be shaped by the community itself. We look forward to listening to community members, learning from their perspectives and working together to create a space that honours the stories, contributions and experiences of South Asian Canadians for generations to come.”
The next phase of work will focus on exploring opportunities, potential sites and spaces, supporting further community engagement, and developing an implementation plan with key milestones to help guide future decisions.
“As a Surrey resident, registered nurse, and past co-chair of the minister’s advisory committee, I wholeheartedly support the advancement of this museum,” said Balbir Gurm, former co-chair, minister’s advisory committee. “Cultural identity is foundational to well-being, and when communities see their stories honoured, it strengthens belonging, resilience and mental health. Surrey is home to vibrant, multigenerational communities whose stories and contributions have helped shape British Columbia. Having led the Punjabi and South Asian Legacy Projects, I know this institution will transform community health and pride.”
Quick Facts:
* Canadians of South Asian heritages have origins in nations such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, with a diaspora as far-reaching as Fiji.
* Canadians of South Asian heritages make up approximately 9.6% of the population and are the second largest racialized group in B.C.
* In 2017, the Province committed to the establishment of a provincial museum that focused on the contributions, histories, cultures and achievements of Canadians of South Asian heritages, based on prior legacy projects working to address historical wrongs. The Province affirmed this as a commitment in 2020.
* The Province conducted a year-long public engagement process in 2024-25 that included surveys, community conversations, youth engagement, written submissions and discussions with community organizations, academics and museum professionals. More than 145 engagement sessions were held throughout B.C. A What We Heard report was released in August 2025.
Learn More:
* To read the memorandum of understanding, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/sports-recreation-arts-and-culture/arts-and-culture/arts-culture-initiatives/csahm_mou_tacs_surrey_2026.pdf
