Celebrating Heritage, Demanding Justice

May is Asian Heritage Month, a time of reflection and celebration and a time to honor the journeys of those who have enriched our communities with their resilience, talent, and culture. As we recognize the enduring traditions and contributions of the Asian community in Canada, we must also stand together against policies and practices that threaten the livelihood and dignity of our community members. Today, I highlight the troubling situation facing many small business owners operating health centers, spas and massage parlours in Richmond Hill, a community that has long provided essential, accessible and affordable services to countless members of our community. The recent enforcement actions targeting these establishments are not only a threat to individual livelihoods but also to the rich tapestry of our collective heritage.

Since March 1, 2025, 129 spas in Richmond Hill received notices from the city’s Bylaw department mandating that they cease operations by April 1. Shocking statistics reveal that 95% of these spas are Chinese‑owned. These numbers tell a story of communities who have laid down roots in Canada despite numerous challenges. Many of these business owners are single mothers and hardworking individuals who struggle with economic pressures, language barriers, and the day-to-day realities of supporting their families. For them, these spas are more than mere businesses; they are lifelines that connect their cultural heritage to the promise of a better life.

The Human Cost of Unclear Enforcement

I have spoken directly with workers and owners and one of the most troubling aspects of this enforcement is how it is being carried out. The notices reference zoning bylaws (bylaw 66‑71 for NC zones and bylaw 150‑80 for MC‑1 zones, to name a couple) but they fail to provide any detailed evidence of violations. In all instances, the letter from the city simply proclaims "The Zoning By-law prohibits this use. You shall cease the business use at this property by April 1, 2025" without further explanation. There are no direct citations from the bylaws that are in violation, nor are there concrete examples of missteps. Many of these establishments operate within clearly defined regulatory boundaries. They have managed customer traffic responsibly, maintained clean and inviting premises, and consistently demonstrated their commitment to community standards. Yet we face a vague, uncompromising mandate that could shutter these businesses without a clear, transparent basis.

I have also learned that there are even more alarming developments. There are reports of undercover investigations that are not only intrusive but intimidating. Landlords are being contacted by the city about these alleged violations, heightening the fear that these individuals' ability to operate their businesses might be compromised. Many of these businesses have been a part of Richmond Hill for over 10 years, while others are just beginning to find their footing under challenging economic conditions.

It is deeply concerning that these enforcement actions appear to disproportionately affect Asian‑owned businesses, particularly Asian women-owned businesses, suggesting a pattern of selective scrutiny that targets cultural and economic expressions of this community. As community members and advocates, we must ask our local officials to clarify the legal basis for these shutdowns. We deserve transparency. The affected business owners have maintained strict adherence to the city’s bylaws, invested their life savings and time into building legitimate businesses, and contributed tirelessly to their neighborhoods. They provide an invaluable and accessible service to their clientele. Their history of compliance, along with the lack of specific evidence of violations, calls into serious question the fairness of these recent actions.

A Call to Action

In the spirit of Asian Heritage Month, I ask that you join me in calling upon the City of Richmond Hill and all relevant government departments to take the following actions:

1. Immediate Suspension of Shutdown Enforcement: Pause enforcement actions that mandate business closures. Grant a reasonable grace period—no less than six months—to help these businesses align with any regulatory requirements. This pause is essential for dialogue, compliance, and mutual understanding.

2. Halt Intimidatory Practices: Cease undercover investigations and any activities that charge workers or owners unjustified fees. Protection of workers is the responsibility of the Ministry of Labour, not local bylaw officers whose role is to ensure public safety through transparent means.

3. Cease Unwarranted Landlord Contact: Immediately discontinue any communications to landlords that threaten eviction. Such intimidating actions destabilize business tenancies and create undue hardship.

4. Open a Transparent Dialogue: Engage directly with massage parlour operators to address legitimate resident concerns, such as issues related to smoking, trash management, noise and appearance. This cooperative approach will help restore security, communication and mutual trust in the community.

5. Explore Inclusive Licensing and Zoning Reforms: Explore alternative certification models, such as accepting other types of qualifications that allow non‑Registered Massage Therapists to work or amending zoning requirements, to reflect the varied backgrounds and skills of our workforce. This could mirror innovative models seen in other cities like Toronto and help sustain our cultural businesses.

   
   

This is not merely a local zoning issue - it is a question of justice, transparency, and economic survival for those who have invested their lives in Richmond Hill. As we observe Asian Heritage Month, I stand with every affected business owner and worker who has built their life here. I am committed to fighting for an approach that respects our hard work and our cultural heritage. Together, with a renewed commitment to dialogue and fairness, we can ensure that Richmond Hill truly lives up to its promise as “The Smart Place for Business.”