Multicultural does not only refer to the different skin tones we see on an everyday basis, but it is a vision of society, where people with different nationalities, languages, religions and ethnicities can live together. Over the years, Canada's multiculturalism has evolved greater and become a part of their national recognition. In Canada, we have over 250 ethnic origins, and it is a home to 230 different nationalities. Not only is Canada accepting of all but believes we all should be treated equally and with respect. Living with different cultures helps citizens understand others viewpoint and discourages hatred and violence. As a multicultural country, Canada forms a racial and ethnic harmony. Canada became a multicultural society in 1971 when the government recognized its value and dignity as a Canadian. It was to reflect the changing reality of Canada's racial and ethnic diversity, and an effort to promote a greater appreciation and awareness of Canada's cultural diversity.
Canada was the first country to adopt the multiculturalism policy in 1971 by Pierre Elliot Trudeau. It meant all citizens can keep their identities, have pride and have a sense of belonging within the community. This gave people a sense of security and self-confidence, considering they are able to express themselves freely. This made Canada more open to different ideologies with the many diverse cultures. With the multiculturalism policy, it created a cross-culture understanding and encourages racial harmony, giving opportunities equally to all. This policy makes Canadian citizens feel welcomed and included in society rather than feeling secluded. In addition, in 1985, the Canadian Multiculturalism Act was passed by parliament which enhanced multiculturalism in Canada. This law made the people of Canada feel more accepted because it provided “everyone is equal before and under the law, benefits of the law without racial discrimination and that everyone has the freedom of religion, thought, belief and opinion”. It also recognized the rights of the aboriginals living in Canada and much more. This extra measure Canada went through made everyone feel welcomed and not live in fear really show how much they care for them as they were the first country to pass this act followed by others.
Save your time!
We can take care of your essay
- Proper editing and formatting
- Free revision, title page, and bibliography
- Flexible prices and money-back guarantee
Every year on June 27th, Canada celebrates Multiculturalism Day. Each year a huge celebration happens in Ottawa, Toronto and Calgary to appreciate Canada’s greatest achievement. This day came into play officially on November 13, 2002 by the proclamation, the government of Canada for others to reflect on our shared commitment to democracy and equality. This day is to show Canadian pride and how far we have come in being divest. Considering we were first to recognize multiculturalism in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, shows our identity as a country and our effort in making an inviting community. This makes the citizens feel safe on Canadian lands. Multiculturalism day helps others learn about the diverse cultures that enriches the Canadian society and brings people together. Also, as Canadian celebrities, various holidays like Elf, Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali and many others give them a sense of belonging to their society. This allows us to truly express who we are and educate others. This gives the citizens a feeling of being part of the community. It shows Canada gives the freedom to express feely. It discourages discrimination and racism as everyone participates and enjoys their beliefs.
With the arrival of the British explorers for the 18 centuries to early 20s, Canada became the world's main immigrant receiving society. This statement still remains true considering 6,775,800 foreign-born individuals live as immigrants in the year 2016 and Canada will be accepting around 1 million new refugees in the next 3 years. Also, when Trump was elected and implemented the travel ban, Trudeau tweeted: “To those fleeing persecution, terror and war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada”. This shows Canada is accepting of all, making it multicultural. Trudeau's positive and welcoming attitude allows his citizens to feel safe but also allows immigrants coming have trust and feel allowed to live here with protection. Being the first to welcome many newcomers shows our attitude to the start of an uprising to a diverse community. “Diversity is Canada's strength”, - stated Trudeau in London at Canada House. Trudeau's attitude towards his country’s multiculturalism really shows his making an effort to become inclusive and promote peace and love in his country. He says how becoming multicultural isn't something new and has been happening for a while and shows our ambition and commitment to this idea to make a safer and better for the world. This makes his citizens feel more secure as diversity is a path to peace as others learn others living style and ideology. Trudeau's attitude towards multiculturalism empowers others to be respectful and be educated on others religions and cultures. Trudeau believes diversity is the solution to end violence and boost acceptance.
Our success as a country has been rooted to belief that every person who works hard should have a real and fair chance to make a better life for themselves no matter their culture, skin color, religion or language. Indeed, it is thanks to our differences that Canada has become the country we know today. Even after Canada has done so much for their citizens to feel accepted and have a sense of belonging, why do people fear to truly express who they are, whether it be their religion or culture? Why are people scared to wear cultural or religious clothing in public or speak a certain language? Canada itself has done its part in really committing to become a better place to live and include each and every person, but the citizens also, have a role in aiding others feel welcomed. So, thank you Canada, it's now the citizens time to take on a role for an even better future, where other countries can look up to us, not that they don't already.
Stuck on your essay?
