ABSTRACT

This chapter delves into the Canadian Punjabi diaspora’s profound impact on cultural enrichment and socioeconomic advancement. The chapter begins outlining the rich history of immigration patterns in Canada by first discussing the broader South Asian community, and then focusing explicitly on the Punjabi subgroup. It examines the diaspora’s contributions to Canadian society through understanding how they maintain links to traditional cultural values and religious beliefs while selectively accepting and rejecting mainstream Canadian practices. Moreover, the chapter delves into the racist discrimination the diaspora has experienced, including the historic Komagata Maru incident. Through empirical studies and analysis, this chapter ultimately paints a vivid picture of the Punjabi community’s multifaceted contributions, underlining their lasting imprint on the fabric of Canadian multiculturalism and economic vitality throughout their life course.