In collaboration with textile-based artist Jen Hiebert, this project aimed to recognize the invisible labour of women who helped shape Chinatown over the last 150 years. A made-to-order pinafore with a screen printed portrait of Nellie Yip Quong, was designed as a symbol of resilience, strength and solidarity. Orders were taken from women in the community and custom-made to size. The garments were worn by their owners during the 2019 Women’s March in Vancouver, BC, held on January 19, 2019.

Nellie Yip Quong (1888-1949) was a feminist and social activist. She was a bold and outspoken advocate for her adopted Chinese community, serving as a midwife to some 500 Chinese-Canadian women during her lifetime in Vancouver.