Dr. Henry Yu

As a history professor, Dr. Yu’s main research focus is on the history of transpacific migrations and the manner in which our past is passed onto future generations through historical narratives, heritage conservation and place-making. He is passionate about helping Canadians understand and unlearn the cultural and historical legacies of colonialism and to be inspired by the often hidden and untold stories of those who struggled against racism and made Canadian society more inclusive and just. He has served on advisory committees for formal apologies acknowledging historical discrimination and for the implementation of substantive legacy projects at all three levels of government. Dr. Yu received his BA in Honours History from UBC and an MA and PhD in History from Princeton University. He was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and the Province of BC’s Multicultural Award in 2015 in recognition of his research and community leadership.