A teen humanitarian feels thankful for her Filipino Calgarian experiences
Highlighting the rich heritage and contributions of Asian Canadians in Calgary
May is Asian Heritage Month and to celebrate, CBC Calgary is featuring Calgarians and what it means to be Asian Canadian in 2021. This first person piece was written by Jeanae Elisha Ventura is a young humanitarian, an award-winning singer, a member of the Young Canadians of Calgary Stampede and Junior Miss Galaxy Airdrie 2021 and Junior Miss Calgary 2019-2020. For more information about CBC's First Person stories, please see the FAQ.
Even though I am young and haven't experienced racism myself, I still want to speak out about it and help those who have.- Jeanae Elisha Ventura
The pandemic has impacted the lives of so many people from all walks of life and corners of the world in many more ways than one. In an instant, the so-called "normal" was changed and we had to adjust. Students like me had to switch to online schooling, many people have lost their jobs and had to find new ones to provide for their families, and we all had to stay inside. But with faith and solidarity, we witness how strong and persistent we are. Because in the end, we will remember how we all contributed to help, reach out and support each other. Regardless of our age, colour, religion and social status, we are in this battle for equality and equity together.
The pandemic has never dampened my being a Filipino Canadian. In fact, it has made me even more proud of the beautiful blending of the best of my Filipino and Canadian influences and traits, which encourage me to serve as a spokesperson for anti-racism, respect, and care for the poor and vulnerable.
I can only be thankful and gratified that the Filipino Canadian experience, particularly in Alberta, has been welcoming and favourable for me and my family. I think that we should all respect each other regardless of where we are. Even though I am young and haven't experienced racism myself, I still want to speak out about it and help those who have.
Follow #ProudlyAsianCanadian on Instagram for content throughout the month.
