The multiculturalism policy in Canada was established in 1971 to preserve the cultural freedom of individuals and recognize the cultural contributions of diverse ethnic groups to Canadian society. This policy was implemented based on the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism, which recognized the need to give greater recognition and support to minority groups in preserving their cultures.
Key Facts
- Preservation of cultural freedom: The policy aimed to preserve the cultural freedom of all individuals and recognize the cultural contributions of diverse ethnic groups to Canadian society.
- Recommendations of the Royal Commission: The policy of multiculturalism was implemented based on the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism. The commission recognized the need to give greater recognition and support to minority groups in preserving their cultures.
- Promotion of cultural diversity: The policy was implemented to promote respect for cultural diversity and grant ethnic groups the right to preserve and develop their own cultures within Canadian society.
- Political motivations: The adoption of multiculturalism was partially motivated by political concerns. The Liberal Party in Canada was looking to broaden its appeal and win votes from ethnic communities in Ontario. It also aimed to appease the opposition to official bilingualism in Western Canada.
Preservation of Cultural Freedom
The multiculturalism policy aimed to promote respect for cultural diversity and grant ethnic groups the right to preserve and develop their own cultures within Canadian society. This was seen as a way to ensure that all individuals could maintain their cultural identity and heritage while still participating fully in Canadian society.
Recommendations of the Royal Commission
The Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism was established in 1963 to examine the state of bilingualism and biculturalism in Canada. The commission’s report, released in 1967, recommended that the Canadian government adopt a policy of multiculturalism to recognize the cultural diversity of the country. The commission argued that this policy would help to promote social harmony and unity by allowing all Canadians to feel that they belonged to the country.
Political Motivations
The adoption of multiculturalism was also partially motivated by political concerns. The Liberal Party in Canada was looking to broaden its appeal and win votes from ethnic communities in Ontario. It also aimed to appease the opposition to official bilingualism in Western Canada.
Conclusion
The multiculturalism policy has been a significant part of Canadian society for over 50 years. It has helped to promote cultural diversity and respect for different cultures, and it has allowed all Canadians to feel that they belong to the country.
References
- Kymlicka, W. (1995). Multicultural Citizenship: A Liberal Theory of Minority Rights. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
- Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. (n.d.). Canadian Multiculturalism Policy, 1971. Retrieved from https://pier21.ca/research/immigration-history/canadian-multiculturalism-policy-1971
- American University. (n.d.). A Look at Multi-Ethnic Countries and Policy-Making. Retrieved from https://programs.online.american.edu/mpap/master-of-public-administration-and-policy/resources/a-look-at-multi-ethnic-countries-and-policy-making
FAQs
What is multiculturalism?
Multiculturalism is a policy or ideology that recognizes and respects the cultural diversity of a society and promotes equal rights and opportunities for all cultural groups.
Why was the multiculturalism policy created in Canada?
The multiculturalism policy in Canada was created in 1971 to promote respect for cultural diversity and grant ethnic groups the right to preserve and develop their own cultures within Canadian society.
What were the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism?
The Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism recommended that the Canadian government adopt a policy of multiculturalism to recognize the cultural diversity of the country. The commission argued that this policy would help to promote social harmony and unity by allowing all Canadians to feel that they belonged to the country.
What were the political motivations for adopting multiculturalism in Canada?
The adoption of multiculturalism in Canada was partially motivated by political concerns. The Liberal Party in Canada was looking to broaden its appeal and win votes from ethnic communities in Ontario. It also aimed to appease the opposition to official bilingualism in Western Canada.
How has the multiculturalism policy impacted Canadian society?
The multiculturalism policy has helped to promote cultural diversity and respect for different cultures in Canada. It has also allowed all Canadians to feel that they belong to the country.
What are some criticisms of the multiculturalism policy?
Some critics argue that the multiculturalism policy has led to the fragmentation of Canadian society and has made it more difficult to build a sense of national unity. Others argue that the policy has not gone far enough to address the systemic discrimination faced by some minority groups.
What is the future of multiculturalism in Canada?
The future of multiculturalism in Canada is uncertain. Some argue that the policy is outdated and needs to be revised to reflect the changing demographics of the country. Others argue that the policy is still relevant and should be maintained.
What are some examples of multiculturalism in Canada?
There are many examples of multiculturalism in Canada. For example, the country has two official languages, English and French, and there are many other languages spoken by Canadians from different cultural backgrounds. Canada also has a diverse range of religions, traditions, and customs.