The language debate has fired up again in Richmond after the appearance of a collection of road signs featuring both English and Chinese.
Of course, bilingual signs are nothing new in Canada, but it’s normally French and English.
And in Richmond, Chinese signage is around, but normally just on private shops, not on the roads.
The signs in question come from WorkSafeBC, and urge drivers to slow down in construction zones.
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Richmond is now considered North America’s most Asian city, with up to 80% Asian populations in some communities.
When it comes to shops at Aberdeen Centre shopping mall, English must be the predominant language on the signs, with a Chinese translation nearby.
“We have very strict rules about using English and also Chinese. Our purpose is that whoever comes into the mall will not feel uncomfortable,” says promotions manager Joey Kwan.
Food writer Stephanie Yuen says one of the main attractions of Richmond is the ability to live a normal Chinese life, but with better air quality and natural surroundings.
“You do have the normal life as an Asian. You eat like in your home country. You live like the way you are. But then we have fresh air. We have beautiful beaches,” she says.
She says people should get to know the Asian community and learn what they can offer each other – including great Chinese food.
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