The Lost Stories Project:

The Lost Story of Yee Clun and Regina's "White Women's Labour Law"

In fall 2016, the SHFS was contacted The Lost Stories Project, a project led by Concordia University. The SHFS was delighted to provide on-the-ground coordination and support for the local people that were involved in the telling of this story.

The Lost Stories Project sought out little-known stories about the Canadian past and transformed them into works of public art. This process was documented through a series of short films. Along the way, forgotten moments from Canadian history were brought to light, and viewers had a chance to see the choices that have to be made when a story is turned into a work of art. Lost Stories was selected as a Canada 150 Signature event and received funding to do four episodes across Canada.

The story for the Prairie Provinces is that of Yee Clun*, a Regina restaurant owner. Yee Clun came to prominence in 1924, fighting a Saskatchewan law that required him to secure a municipal license to hire “white women” as employees. Hearings were held that reflected both the racial prejudices of the time, but also significant support for a well-respected businessman and member of the community. Ultimately, Yee Clun’s request was rejected, but the city’s actions were overturned by the Saskatchewan Court of King’s Bench. In the end, this is a story of racial prejudice, but also one of the courage of Yee Clun to challenge the law and of others who stood up for his cause.

* Yee Clun's birth name, as pronounced in his native Hoi-Ping dialect, could be written as Yue Kun Xian. To an English-speaking immigration officer of the time, it may have sounded like Yee Quon Theen, which is how the name was spelled on various documents. It is believed the name was then shortened to Yee Clun. After his marriage, Yue Kun Xian was known in the Chinese community as Yue Yoke Giet. His wife's name can be written as Arng Woon Goke.