Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2
Fax: 613-941-6900
Date: 2025-04-19

Dear honorable Mr. Carney,
We hope this letter finds you well.
As Chinese Canadians who have lived in this country for many years, we hold deep respect and love for Canada. It is with a heavy heart that we write this letter, in response to your recent remarks during the national leadership debate. When asked about the greatest security threat facing Canada , your reply — “China, and Chinese people” — was both shocking and deeply troubling.
We fully understand the complexities of international relations and the difficult responsibilities leaders face when addressing national security. However, associating a foreign government with an entire ethnic group can easily lead to misunderstanding and anxiety, especially for Chinese Canadians who call this country home. Your words have caused harm and confusion within our community.
Chinese Canadians have already endured wrongful treatment and false accusations fueled by extreme conservative forces.

During 2022–2023, the Conservative Party persistently politicized “national security” concerns, targeting Chinese Canadian organizations and individuals with normal ties to China, based on unverified media reports and exaggerated claims. Even though investigations by authoritative agencies such as the RCMP found no evidence of illegal activity, this narrative continues. The Conservatives have essentially reduced complex international relations to an “us vs. them” story, exploiting public fears to gain political advantage. The consequences go beyond isolated cases of injustice or discrimination — they strike at the very foundation of Canada’s multicultural society, which is built on the belief that people of all backgrounds can contribute equally.
We once placed our hopes in your party — a party that we believed valued diversity and unity among all communities in Canada.
As a national leader, your words carry great weight. It is crucial, when addressing global issues, to clearly distinguish between the actions of foreign governments and the citizens from those cultural backgrounds who live peacefully and contribute positively to Canada. Regardless of your intent, your statement has caused concern at a time when Asian communities across North America are feeling increasingly vulnerable.
History reminds us that language holds great power — it can heal, or it can harm. From the Chinese Head Tax and the Exclusion Act, to the recent rise in anti-Asian hate, we have learned to listen carefully to the messages conveyed through public discourse.
With respect and sincerity, we make the following requests:
That you clarify the meaning and context of your remarks during the debate;

And that in future discussions involving foreign affairs or national security, you take special care to avoid language that could be interpreted as conflating international political issues with domestic ethnic communities.

As Prime Minister, you have the opportunity to unite Canadians from all walks of life. In a time of global uncertainty, language that is clear and inclusive can provide comfort and cohesion to our society.
We continue to believe that Canada is a country that values diversity and upholds equality for all. We hope you will listen to the voices from our community and respond with empathy and responsible leadership.

Sincerely,

Proud Canadian Citizens

You can go to : https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/connect/contact , sending this letter message directly