Article #4: Onlookers of the Komagata Maru

Citation: Fonds, James. Onlookers on wharf watching the “Komagata Maru.” Photograph. City of Vancouver Archives, CVA-7-129. https://searcharchives.vancouver.ca/onlookers-on-wharf-watching-komagata-maru

Garnering the attention of many, the Komagata Maru is a symbol of the resilience and determination of marginalized groups. The onlookers of the Komagata Maru stood as bystanders who wanted nothing more than to watch the commotion happening in front of them. This event influenced many Canadians to take a political stance regarding restrictive immigration policies. The audience consisted of citizens, journalists and officials who all banded together to ease their curiosity for what was about to happen to the passengers of the Komagata Maru. Many were aware of the injustice of the situation, but others also rooted for the exclusion of the Indians on the ship, spreading the anti-Asian sentiment the Canadian government imposed on its people. Nevertheless, this public space united many others who fought against this racist sentiment and garnered support for the amendment of Canadian immigration policies. This image by James fonds captures the many different emotions of onlookers who were divided by their own beliefs.

Bibliography: IWM WEBSITE. “The Tragic Journey of the Komagata Maru,” n.d. https://www.iwm.at/publication/iwmpost-article/the-tragic-journey-of-the-komagata-maru.