The Long Fight for Japanese Canadian Votes | Canada News

In 1895, Japanese Canadians were denied the right to vote in BC—but over 200 of them enlisted in WWI, sparking a decades-long fight for equality. By 1931, veterans finally got the vote, and it wasn’t until 1948 that all Japanese Canadians could cast ballots. Led by Sergeant Masumi Mitsui, this movement culminated in a historic plaque unveiled in Stanley Park in 2024, honoring the 1931 milestone alongside the 54 Japanese Canadian soldiers who died in WWI. Mitsui, a decorated soldier himself, quietly endured internment and loss after the war, never publicly displaying his medals—but always honoring his fallen comrades. The plaque’s placement, delayed by bureaucratic hurdles and First Nations consultation, now stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and the long road to recognition. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/91c6529545e1c59e