Vancouver, British Columbia – May 2, 2025 – Today, the Asian Canadian Labour Alliance of BC (ACLA-BC) joins in observing this Provincial Day of Remembrance and Mourning, declared in honour of the victims of the tragic mass casualty event at the Lapu-Lapu Festival in Vancouver last weekend. We stand in deep solidarity with the entire Filipino community across British Columbia during this time of profound grief.
We are saddened by the devastating news of the loss of life, injuries, and the impact this tragedy has had on individuals, families, and the Filipino community. As an organization committed to fostering equity, justice, and the well-being of Asian Canadians and working people in BC, we offer our sincere condolences to all those affected, no matter where they reside in British Columbia.
This tragedy resonates strongly with ACLA-BC, as many of our members are part of the vibrant Filipino community and were present at the Lapu-Lapu Festival. We share in the shock and grief of our members and their families, and this event underscores the importance of community, support, and solidarity during such difficult times.
The Lapu-Lapu Festival is a significant cultural event for Filipinos, and this heartbreaking incident has undoubtedly shaken the sense of community and joy that it represents for many. The Lapu-Lapu Festival commemorates the historic Battle of Mactan and the bravery of Lapu-Lapu, a symbol of resistance against colonization and a significant figure in Filipino history. The official acknowledgement of Lapu-Lapu Day by the British Columbia government in 2023 marked an important milestone, recognizing the rich contributions and heritage of the Filipino community in our province. This year’s event was only the second annual Lapu-Lapu Day block party since, making this tragedy all the more poignant as it struck a community gathering to celebrate their heritage and identity. ACLA-BC recognizes the strength, resilience, and abiding community bonds within the Filipino community. We want to offer our unwavering support during this incredibly difficult time and affirm our commitment to stand against any form of prejudice or hate.
We commend the swift actions of first responders, the dedication of community leaders in Vancouver, and the outpouring of support from volunteers, residents, community members, and other groups. We also acknowledge the concern and solidarity being shown by Filipino communities in other parts of BC and the rest of Canada, including our colleagues at ACLA-Ontario. We are encouraged to see the Filipino community in BC, demonstrating their strong spirit of Kapwa (shared humanity), has partnered with the United Way to establish a centralized fund to directly support the victims and their families.
ACLA-BC encourages all members of our organization and the wider British Columbian community who are able to offer their support to contribute to this vital initiative. Donations can be made to the “Filipino BC (Together, we are Kapwa Strong)” fund through this link: http://filipinobc.com/.
In the spirit of solidarity, our commitment to human rights, and our dedication to fostering understanding, support, and healing within our diverse society throughout BC, ACLA-BC pledges to stand alongside the Filipino community across our province in the days and weeks ahead. We believe in the strength of our collective spirit and ability to come together in times of adversity, united against hate and in support of one another.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the entire Filipino community in British Columbia. Mabuhay.
In Solidarity and Struggle,
The Asian Canadian Labour Alliance of BC (ACLA-BC)
About the Asian Canadian Labour Alliance (ACLA):
For over two decades, the Asian Canadian Labour Alliance (ACLA) has been a grassroots collective of community and labour activists with chapters in both Ontario and British Columbia. ACLA’s mission is to develop an Asian Canadian Labour identity and generate a Labour-positive presence within Asian communities. The organization works both within the labour movement and within Asian communities to raise the profile of Asian Canadian labour issues. ACLA encourages and supports Asian Canadian workers to participate more fully in the Labour movement and promotes Asian Canadian activists in leadership roles. ACLA challenges racism, systemic discrimination and internalized racism by providing education and workshops, mobilizing for rallies, strikes, and picket lines and connecting workers with support organizations. ACLA works in solidarity with international, migrant, and temporary workers. To learn more about ACLA and its initiatives, please visit http://asianlabour.ca/.