Introduction / History

Japanese Canadians now contribute much to Canada economically, culturally, politically and otherwise. The first Japanese immigrants came to Canada from 1877 to 1928. Most lived in British Columbia and worked in farming, fishing and pulp mills. Some lived in Alberta. After 1928, Canada limited Japanese immigration and the ones that were in Canada found life hard. They began having their own communities.

During World War II, they were sent to detention places and to prisoner of war camps. At the end of the war if they wanted to remain in Canada they had to go east of the Rocky Mountains. Many went to Ontario, Quebec or the Prairie provinces. In the 1950s life was difficult for them.

After 1967 more Japanese immigrants came to Canada, mainly due to changes in the Immigration Act. They were usually educated and they spoke English or French. Many worked in service occupations and in skilled trades.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Now Canadians of Japanese descent live in several places in Canada, mainly in the provinces of British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta.

Most Canadians of Japanese descent now were born in Canada. Most of them live in Vancouver or Toronto. Many of them are under 24 years of age.

The majority have said that they do not belong to any religion. Only a few are single parents. A lot of them have university degrees. According to a survey, most Japanese Canadians said they felt they belonged in Canada.

Prayer Points

* Pray that a way is found so that the Japanese including the young find relevance in the Gospel message and give their lives to Jesus Christ.

References

www.asia-canada.ca/changing-perspectives/japanese
www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/89-621-x/89-621-x2007013-eng.htm