We believe that storytelling shapes how we remember, resist, and rebuild. This May, join us for a month of creative workshops, moving performances, and important conversations. Together, we’ll explore the histories we carry — and the futures we can imagine.
Rice Against the Machine Residency | May 1–31
We are honoured to welcome the Rice Against the Machine Collective — Patrick de Belen, Christopher Tse, and Anto Chan — as writers-in-residence for the month of May.
Rice Against the Machine is a creative collaboration between three Asian-Canadian poets and educators, examining questions of identity, solidarity, and resistance in a time of resurgent anti-Asian hate, global unrest, and powerful grassroots movements.
Throughout May, the collective will work on their project while offering workshops and public events — stay tuned for ways to participate!
Learn more about the residency and their bios here.
Rice Against the Machine:
Poetry. Film. Community.
Sunday, May 25, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
1450 W 64th Ave, Vancouver
Spoken word artists Patrick de Belen, Anto Chan, and Christopher Tse come together for a night of honest, powerful art at Vancouver’s Joy Kogawa House. After spending time in residency at this historic home, they’ve created new work that speaks to Asian heritage, family, healing, and what it means to push back against silence.
Expect a mix of:
short films,
live poetry performances,
and some surprise moments you won’t see coming.
This isn’t just a show—it’s a space to reflect, feel, and connect. From funny and heartfelt to heavy and raw, these performances are about making sense of where we come from and where we’re going.
Whether you’re into poetry, community, or just want to be moved by something meaningful—Rice Against the Machine brings it all together. All proceeds from the event will go to support the survivors of the Lapu Lapu Festival Tragedy and the Filipino community.
Other Events in May
Tuesday Night Writing Group at Kogawa House
May 13, 20, 27 | 6–8pm
Every Tuesday evening, join us for a weekly Pomodoro-style writing group, hosted both in-person and online via Zoom. We offer two focused 55-minute sessions with breaks to chat, share, or simply enjoy the company of fellow writers.
Writers of all levels are welcome. No registration required.
Drop in and be part of our writing community!
Poetry Jam
May 22 | 7–9pm
Poetry Jam is back! This edition of Poetry Jam on May 22 will feature Patrick De Belen, Chris Tse, and Anto Chan who will share and also offer an opportunity to provide 1-1 feedback to participants at the session. Whether you’re reading or listening, everyone is welcome.
Spots are limited — don’t miss this electrifying night of community voices.
Community Spotlight:
Casey and Diana
at the Arts Club Theatre
We encourage you to check out Casey and Diana, running this May at the Arts Club Theatre Company.
This powerful new play explores courage, compassion, and community during the AIDS crisis.
???? More about the show here.
Honouring the Victims at Lapu Lapu Day
In April, our community was shaken by the tragic attack at the Lapu Lapu Day celebrations in Vancouver. We grieve the loss and injury suffered by innocent people gathered in pride and remembrance, and we stand in solidarity with the Filipino community during this time of mourning and healing.
We encourage you to take time to learn more, reflect, and, if able, support the victims and their families.
If you or someone you know has witnessed or experienced trauma, help is available 24/7:
Victim Services: Call or text 1-800-563-0808, or email 211-victimlinkbc@uwbc.ca
310 Mental Health Support Line: Dial 310-6789 (no area code needed)
Crisis Line: Call 1-800-784-2433
Thank you for being part of our community and supporting spaces where history, creativity, and healing meet. We look forward to seeing you at the house, online, or out in the community this May!
With gratitude,
Historic Joy Kogawa House