IBPOC Activism Talks: Chinatown community activist elder Sean Gunn

Join us for an inspiring in-person conversation with Sean Gunn, a Hakka elder and long-time community activist from Vernon and Vancouver Chinatowns. Drawing on decades of lived experience, Sean will reflect on the struggles, resistance, and organizing efforts that have shaped Chinatown as we know it today.

This talk will trace key moments in Chinatown’s history of grassroots resistance — from the Chinese Benevolent Association democratization protests, to the firehall fight, to the pivotal Strathcona Freeway struggle, and the head tax reparations — told firsthand by someone who was on the ground during these defining battles.

Sean will also speak about the early building of community cultural spaces and initiatives in Chinatown, including the founding of the Chinese Cultural Centre, the democratic takeover of the Chinese Benevolent Association, the inaugural 1975 Grass Dragon Festival, Pender Guy radio, the pan-Asian Canadian Asiandian youth publication, and other formative cultural projects that continue to shape Chinatown today.

As a musician and writer, Sean will also share original music and poetry he's composed.

Tickets are pay what you can, with a suggested donation of $12 to help cover speaker honouraria, refreshments, programming, equipment, insurance, utilities, and other venue operational costs of 客家 HAKKA HOUSE, a volunteer-run, non-profit community space. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you prefer to donate in cash or would like a free ticket, please email us at [email protected] for arrangements.

This event is part of the IBPOC Activism Talks series featuring grassroots activism by IBPOC.

This talk will be in spoken English.

This is a mask-mandatory and scent-free event for the health and safety of all attendees, considering the size and layout of our small, close-knit, indoor space. All participants must wear a mask while in the space. Attendees who do not wear a mask will not be able to participate or please let us know if you had medical circumstances that prevent you from wearing a mask. Masks may be briefly removed for quick sips of water and must be replaced immediately afterward. Refreshments will be provided after the event and can be consumed in the food court outside the space. We encourage participants to bring their own masks. Masks will also be available free on site.

Hosted by 客家 HAKKA HOUSE, Critical Alternatives, and SaveChinatownYVR

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Amenities

Tea and light refreshments will be provided complimentary of 客家 HAKKA HOUSE.

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Accessibility Information

• Masking: This is a mask-mandatory and scent-free event for the health and safety of all attendees, considering the size and layout of our small, close-knit, indoor space. All participants must wear a mask while in the space. Attendees who do not wear a mask will not be able to participate or please let us know if you had medical circumstances that prevent you from wearing a mask. Masks may be briefly removed for quick sips of water and must be replaced immediately afterward. Refreshments can be consumed in the concourse outside the space. We encourage participants to bring their own masks. Masks will also be available free on site.
• Ticketing: Tickets are pay what you can, with a suggested donation of $12 to help cover refreshments, programming, and venue operational costs of 客家 HAKKA HOUSE, a volunteer-run, non-profit community space. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. If you prefer to donate in cash or would like a free ticket, please email us at [email protected] for arrangements.
• Language: This talk will be in spoken English.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The space is accessible to standard-sized wheelchairs.
• Seating: Wooden chair setting will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring a small pillow or cushion for back support.
• Scent Policy: To support participants with chemical sensitivities, attendees are kindly asked to refrain from wearing scented products (including perfume, cologne, and heavily scented personal care products).
• Washrooms: Gendered, wheelchair-accessible public washrooms are available inside Chinatown Plaza Mall.
• Photography and Videography: Photography and videography will be in use during this event. By registering for a ticket and attending, you acknowledge that you may be photographed or recorded for promotional and archival purposes. If you do not wish to be included, please inform the event organizers in person prior to the start of the event.
• Transit: Chinatown is accessible by public transit via SkyTrain and bus. The closest SkyTrain station is Stadium–Chinatown. Bus routes in the area include the 3, 8, 19, and 22.
• Parking: Paid parking is available at the Chinatown Plaza Mall parkade. Free street parking is available in Strathcona.

If you have access needs or questions not addressed here, please contact us at [email protected] prior to the event.

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