Background
On March 25, 2014, the Province of Ontario declared January, Tamil Heritage Month. It’s a time to recognize the richness of the Tamil language and culture, as well as to educate future generations about Tamil heritage.
In 1960, Tamils began immigrating to Canada from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. These migrants were predominately from English-educated professional backgrounds. By 1967, their populations grew dramatically with the introduction of the point system and sponsorship of family members. Then, in the 1970s, a significant number came from Great Britain to find greater economic opportunities. Many of them settled in Alberta in this period due to the boom of oil production in that province.
In 1983, a state-sanctioned anti-Tamil pogrom called Black July (கறுப்பு யூலை) forced Tamils to flee violence and political persecution from Sri Lanka. In turn, the Canadian government extended refugee status to those who sought asylum in 1986. Brian Mulroney, who was Prime Minster of Canada at the time, unequivocally argued that “we are not in the business of turning away refugees.” As a result, 155 Tamil refugees proceeded to start new careers, families and lives — mainly in Toronto and Montreal.
Tamil Heritage Month at TDSB
Despite the obstacles faced, Tamil Canadians continued to enrich our society with remarkable achievements in the arts, politics, and other fields. For this reason, the Toronto District School Board has marked this year’s theme for Tamil Heritage Month as Community. Belonging. Joy - சமூகம் சார்ந்த சந்தோசம்
These themes strongly align with the TDSB’s strategic priorities. When schools, families, and communities work together to support learning, students are more likely to perform better in school, stay in school longer, and build healthy relationships in their classrooms. Additionally, the concept of belonging is closely aligned with the TDSB’s appreciation of student voice, anti-racist professional learning, and identity-affirming education which allows students to feel a greater sense of confidence and connection in schools.
Follow @TDSB_Tamil on Twitter or visit the TDSB website for THM facts and happenings.
Tamil Heritage Month in the Community
Many Tamil artistic and cultural events will take place this month. Most significantly, the Tamil Harvest Festival, Pongal, a time of joy, celebration, and community that will occur between January 14-17, 2023. It is a traditional occasion, which brings families and friends together to give for a successful harvest and share Pongal, a rice dish. Iniya Thai Pongal Nalvazhthukkal!
The Tamil Canadian Centre for Civic Action (led by TDSB Vice Chair, Neethan Shan) has developed many interactive and educational opportunities for students and community:
An evening reception event to celebrate the start of Tamil Heritage Month and great opportunity to learn and network with fellow leaders and organizations within the Tamil Community in the GTA.
Annual Poster Competition
A contest that is open to Canadian artists and designers of all ages, with various prizes available. The poster should depict any aspect of the past, present, and future of Tamils in Trade and Commerce.
A leadership learning series for Tamil high school youth to learn about Tamil Heritage month and business leaders. Volunteer hours will be provided.
A five-month professional and leadership development program committed to empowering the next generation of Tamil public servants and political representatives. Next cohort commences May 2023.
Youth Volunteer Opportunities
Contact the Centre to assist with administrative and outreach duties.
In-School Information Sessions for Tamil students
An opportunity to have Tamil Civic Action visit schools and educational institutions for interactive info sessions and workshops with Tamil students.
Contact info@tamilcivicaction for more information on the events and activities above.