HOF009: Tran Duc Chi

Tran Duc Chi left Vietnam in 1977 at the age of 16, after putting up a passionate argument to persuade his elderly father to give him permission to go. Although he was sponsored by a sister in Montreal, Tran quickly moved to Gatineau where he could take part in a year-long newcomer settlement program and access language classes and employment supports. His experience learning about life in Canada alongside other newcomers, and one specific encounter with a government social worker, would shape his understanding of Canada and guide him towards a long career in public service.