A new cultural group is emerging in St. Albert and it promises to add colour and vitality to the community.
The St. Albert Chinese Cultural Association (SACCA) hosted its first public gathering at Lions Park on Monday, Aug. 4. The 50 plus guests enjoyed a potluck buffet, a tai-chi demonstration led by Zhu Jun Hung and an hour of music performed by Holly Ma. She played a guzheng (zither), a traditional Chinese instrument with 21 strings.
The association is modelling itself after the African & African Descendant Friendship Club of St. Albert (AADFC). Run by volunteers, the AADFC has organized and developed some of the most culturally significant public events in the city.
“We want to include people from Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei. Chinese people are everywhere. We are across the globe and St. Albert is such a good city that it welcomes everyone and we’re happy to live here,” said Jenny Zhai, a volunteer organizer and driving force.
Co-organizer Ingrid Wen added, “We welcome any background – Indonesia, Thailand, or any other country. We want to grow our association and let people know about our heritage. Today is a good day to do it since it’s Heritage Days.”
The city's very first Chinese get-togethers started in 2013 when three St. Albert families in Lacombe launched the group on WeChat to connect for social gatherings and children’s play dates.
“Now there are 100 people in our group, and we want to get together and promote our culture. We want to do bigger events, and everyone is excited to be part of the community,” said Ping Zhu, the original WeChat organizer.
One of the ideas tossed around is creating a St. Albert-style Chinese New Year event including a buffet hosted at St. Albert Seniors’ Centre in Red Willow Place.
“People want to do this, but we have to have a few meetings before we can have a schedule,” said Wen.
Mandarin is the language used on WeChat. Individuals and families have traditionally joined by invitation from someone who is already a member or shared a specific QR code.
When outsiders think of Chinese culture, certain stereotypical symbols pop to mind – dragons, lotus blossoms, exotic temples, elegant calligraphy, paper lanterns and the great wall. However, those living the culture and heritage take a more humanistic approach.
“For us, families are very important. Traditions are important. Friendship is important. We like to get together. We are loud, but very happy,” said Zhai.
SACCA has been in talks with city officials, St. Albert Further Education and the senior centre about upcoming projects all the while seeking to apply for cultural funding.
Wen added, “We want to aim for a bigger group with everyone interested in Chinese culture and heritage attending our events.”
For more information or to join the association email [email protected].
