Early in the 20th century, Canada wanted to attract immigrants as workers and consumers. But the country did not want Asians as permanent residents, even though their labour was needed. The federal government passed laws to prevent the citizenship of Chinese and South Asians, and to prevent Asian women and wives from coming to Canada. In January 1912, Dr. Sundar Singh spoke to the Empire Club in Toronto. He challenged the law and prevailing attitudes against Sikhs.