A new Chinese-language newspaper published and distributed out of Regina reflects the rapidly diversifying demographic of the Saskatchewan region since recent economic growth has spurred an influx of newcomers.
The newspaper, which has been operating bi-weekly since August, was the brainchild of Editor Cris Zhang and some friends who noticed that there could be demand for such a service in the city. So far, Zhang seems to be right, as all 5,000 copies of the paper usually sell out within one week.
“At the beginning we were thinking we would target more the newcomers, but at the same time we felt the Chinese immigrants who have been here need more information … and now they read it too,” says Zhang.
The paper, called Sa Sheng Bao, contains information not only on local news and events, but also issues of concern to immigrants, such as federal regulations, and provincial nominee programs.
“In the beginning, when they [Chinese immigrants] come here, they focus on getting a job and a house, what government departments they need to go to find things, but once they’ve settled down they need to know the local culture, activities … so our goal is to let them feel like this is home here,” says Zhang.
The paper circulates through Regina and Saskatchewan at major grocery stores and other regions of the province through local libraries.
Source: Regina Leader-Post