Vancouver Street Named After Indo-Canadian Pioneer, Businessman Jack Uppal, A First In City History

VANCOUVER — A street has been named after a South Asian Canadian for the first time in Vancouver's history.

 

Jack Uppal Street is located in south Vancouver's River District, the section of the city running along the north side of the Fraser River.

 

Mayor Gregor Robertson made the announcement Wednesday, saying it honours Jagat "Jack" Singh Uppal's legacy in the local South Asian community and his contributions to public life.

 

Robertson says Uppal was dedicated to supporting equal rights and opportunities and worked for a more equal Vancouver, free from racism and discrimination.

 

Uppal founded Goldwood Industries on Mitchell Island, one of the oldest sawmills in B.C., located on land now known as the River District. 

 

He came to B.C. as an infant in 1926 and his activism on behalf of the South Asian community has been recognized with several awards, including an honorary doctorate from Simon Fraser University and the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal.