A plaque recognizing the significance of the Cunningham v Homma National Historic Event was installed at the Steveston Japanese Canadian Museum this month. 

“This is about more than one historical event,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “It is about recognizing the important contributions of Richmond’s Japanese Canadian community and their significant role in shaping Steveston and our city.”

The plaque commemorates the importance of the 1900-1903 Cunningham v. Homma court case, in which Japanese Canadian fisherman and community leader Tomekichi Homma challenged a provision of British Columbia’s Provincial Elections Act that barred Asian Canadians and First Nations from voting. While the Privy Council in England ultimately upheld British Columbia’s voting restrictions, the case became a lasting symbol in the struggle for civil rights in Canada and inspired advocates for equal voting rights for all Canadians. 

Although the National Historic Site and Monuments Board of Canada plaque was unveiled in 2017, a permanent home was not confirmed at that time. The location in Steveston was initially identified by Homma family members for its meaningful connection to the history of Japanese Canadians and its public location. Following engagement with the community, the newly named Steveston Japanese Canadian Museum (historically known as the Japanese Fishermen’s Benevolent Society Building), was approved by Richmond City Council as part of a larger plan to raise the profile of the Museum and the exhibits inside. 

As part of celebrations for Asian Heritage Month, an unveiling event was held on Saturday, May 23 where family members of Tomekichi Homma gathered to witness the plaque’s new home. Other guests in attendance were representatives from the Japanese Canadian community, Steveston Historical Society, Richmond School District, and the City of Richmond’s Mayor and Councillors. 

The plaque’s installation at the Steveston Japanese Canadian Museum helps connect visitors to the exhibits and programs inside the building, ensuring the legacy of Tomekichi Homma and the contributions of Steveston’s Japanese Canadian community continue to be recognized, remembered and shared with future generations.