On May 23, 2024, EEPMON participated in a profound cultural event at the Canadian Museum of History titled “The Paper Trail: A History of the Chinese Exclusion Act in Canada.” Alongside panels featuring curator Catherine Clement and Melissa Lee, CEO of the Chinese Canadian Museum, EEPMON presented a creative response to the 1923 Chinese Exclusion Act.
The centrepiece of this contribution is the mural and commemorative apparel design, “The Paper Trail Towards the Red Sun.” This work serves as a visual narrative of a dark period in Canadian history, intended to foster empathy and contribute to a path of healing. The design integrates excerpts from discriminatory legal documents, including the Chinese Immigration (C.I.) certificates that were used to monitor and control Chinese individuals—even those born in Canada.
Symbolism and Design Narrative
The artwork transforms historical trauma into a composition reflecting beauty, harm, and hope:
∙ The Number 45: Featured on the front of the garment, representing the C.I. certificates that Canadian-born Chinese individuals were forced to carry.
∙ The Preservation Notice: Front-side Chinese characters translate to: “Notice! This service must be carefully preserved. Evidence of the person in the photo,” a direct quote from the back of historical C.I. certificates.
∙ Legal Inscriptions: The back design incorporates the prominently displayed text “Chinese Exclusion Act July 1st, 1923” and the exclusionary disclaimer: “This certificate does not establish legal status in Canada.”
∙ Purpose: Using creativity to break down barriers and ensure the stories of the “Paper Trail” continue to be told to future generations.
EEPMON’s collaboration with the Canadian Museum of History was made possible through the outreach of Alexis Boyle and the educational foundation provided by Melissa Lee and Catherine Clement. Their work on the original exhibition in Vancouver served as the primary inspiration for the project, providing the historical context necessary for the “Paper Trail Towards the Red Sun” mural and design.
This project stands as a testament to the power of institutional collaboration in addressing complex historical narratives. By transforming historical research into a visual medium, the partnership helped bridge the gap between academic history and public empathy.
Learn more:
[ The Chinese Canadian Museum ]
