VANCOUVER: A Canadian city has given the most befitting tribute to Punjabi pioneer Jack Uppal, by naming a street after him. A well-known Punjabi businessman who came to Canada as a toddler in 1907. He faced discriminatory immigration policies that prevented Indians from bringing heir wives and children, endured bullying at school and fought for the right to vote. Indo-Canadians were disfranchised in 1907.
Vancouver passed a unanimous resolution to designate a street in his name. His relatives were presented a replica street sign bearing his name by the city mayor Gregor Robertson after the resolution was passed amidst thunderous applause from the South-Asian community members and councillors present in the city hall. “This is a very significant day for Vancouver as it recognises an extraordinary Vancouverite who fought racism and discrimination and created many jobs, particularly in South Vancouver. He was a great leader from the South Asian community who became a leader across the entire city,” Robertson said.
Uppal’s daughter Cindy Bains said that it is not just an honour for her family but for the entire South Asian community. Addressing the gathering at the event, former BC attorney general Wally Oppal said that Uppal should have been recognised long ago for his contribution to Canadian society and his compatriots. “The regrettable aspect of his life is that he could have done something lot better - as he faced racism, he couldn’t go to university.”
