Tángs, Clans and Secret Societies: Networks of Belonging in Calgary’s Chinese History

“Who you are” and “where you come from” are not simple demographic questions in Chinese culture but rather are intertwined with the concept of filial piety (孝). Filial piety is at the cornerstone of Chinese culture and Confucian ethics, shaping not only family dynamics but also social structures. It emphasizes respect, loyalty, and care for one’s parents, ancestors, and authority figures, with the aim of fostering social harmony across generations. Filial piety helps to explain how Chinese institutions formed among the diaspora, especially during the Era of Chinese Exclusion in Canada (1885-1947). Until 1947, Chinese people were disenfranchised throughout Canada. They were barred from certain professions, and municipalities often enforced bylaws in certain neighbourhoods that prohibited Chinese ownership.

To overcome these restrictions, Chinese community members formed associations that offered solidarity, collectively purchased land and buildings, and helped members navigate legal and social barriers. As Chinese associations grew during the exclusion era, their leaders helped to negotiate political systems that marginalized Chinese communities. While some societies were linked to illicit activities such as gambling and protection rackets, many served as key advocates for their communities. These societies played a vital role in resisting discrimination, preserving cultural identity, and advocating for their members. Their legacy endures not only in community leadership but also in the landmark buildings that remain at the heart of Calgary’s Chinatown.