Why is Canada known for its cultural diversity?

We often talk about the cultural diversity of Canada. The country is in fact one of the most advanced multicultural nations in the world, thanks to centuries of immigration. It fully accepts its status as a welcoming land and does not fail to remind its inhabitants of this in order to preserve peace and mutual respect. We tell you more through this article.

Canadian multiculturalism: what you need to know

Multiculturalism is of particular importance in Canada. It was established as an ideology because it is a continuation of its immigration policy.

A fundamental Canadian notion

Multiculturalism is today anchored in the Canadian constitution as one of its fundamental characteristics. No wonder in one of the most tolerant and open countries in the world. Recognized for its fair and inclusive immigration policy, it shows real recognition of the contributions of immigration to the economy and the foundations of the country. Immigration is encouraged by the government through numerous programs for studies or work, for refugees or even for family reunifications. They have led to an influx of people from different backgrounds and cultures for decades.

Newcomers can benefit from numerous integration programs and help getting settled. In addition, the quality education system is very attractive, both for families and for international students. The more affordable cost of living than in other developed countries also contributes to the country's international attractiveness.

The Canadian population is ethnically heterogeneous: it is made up of individuals from different cultures and origins. Two international languages are officially spoken there: English throughout the territory and French in the province of Quebec. Its vast territory is still wild and sparsely populated. The government needs more human settlements across its lands.

How do Canadians treat immigrants?

Generally speaking, Canadians demonstrate tolerance and understanding. Newcomers are warmly welcomed and guided with kindness to facilitate their integration. Most like to help and make newcomers feel at home quickly. The latter are invited to participate in the life of the community and to continue to live their own culture. Canada is indeed a country which does not seek to suppress the original culture of its immigrants, but on the contrary pushes them to live it fully and share it. Even if racism exists, it is a phenomenon that remains quite rare.

A multiculturalism anchored in history

Canada has a long history of immigration, starting with its Aboriginal population who settled there centuries ago. The first “immigrants” to Canada were the Norse, around 1000 BC. JC. From 1497, it was Europeans who visited and settled more or less permanently on its territory. There are Portuguese fishing camps there from the 16th century. The French and the English also arrived during this century.

Until the 19th century, the population was essentially divided between people of British origin, those of French origin, and a third group made up of all those of other origins. Over the next two centuries, United Empire Loyalists fled the United States during the Civil War and took refuge in Canada. In the 20th century - aided by the world wars - several waves of European immigration from places other than Great Britain or France followed. These were notably Scottish or Irish. The ethnic group of people of European origin other than French or British has continued to grow from then on. It was the largest demographic group until the last quarter of the 20th century.

In 1971, the policy of multiculturalism was adopted by the Liberal government of Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau. This is a first in the world. In 1982, the country added its Charter of Rights and Freedoms to its Constitution. Its article 27 highlights the importance of the multicultural heritage of Canadians and the need for its preservation and enhancement. It recognizes that the different cultures that constitute Canada have and continue to contribute to its history, its society and its identity.

Towards the end of the century, other nationalities followed, also outside Europe: India, Germany, Italy, Ukraine, China, India and the Philippines. The census carried out in 2021 highlighted the largest ethnic groups. These are the English, Irish, Scottish and French, as well as the Canadians at the top of the ranking. This same census reported more than 450 ethnic or cultural origins in the country's population.

As a result, Canada has never been more culturally, ethnically and linguistically diverse. And the country continues to advocate values in favor of immigration from the four corners of the globe.

Canadian multiculturalism in detail

Sometimes described as a “community of communities”, multiculturalism is a notion that is dear to it and that the country protects on a daily basis.

Some numbers

Forty years ago, two-thirds of immigrants were of European origin. In comparison, among immigrants who arrived from 2016 to 2021, 62% come from Asia (India, Philippines, China, Pakistan) or the Middle East (Syria), while those born in Europe represent only 10% of immigration. Other countries in the top 10 for recent Canadian immigration are Nigeria, the United States, France and the United Kingdom.

Today, nearly 8 million people in Canada identify as belonging to a minority. This represents almost 22% Population. The three largest groups in Canada - excluding Caucasians - are South Asians (1.9 million), Chinese (1.6 million) and the Black community (1.2 million).

It is also in Canada that we find one of the largest numbers of inhabitants born abroad. It is estimated that more than 1.2 million new permanent residents will be added to the Canadian population over the next 3 years.

Canada celebrates National Multiculturalism Day on June 27, Black History Month in February, and Asian Heritage Month in May.

The benefits of Canadian multiculturalism

If multiculturalism is protected by the Canadian Constitution, it is because it is a prerequisite for its immigration policy. In addition, the country and society reap many benefits.

The diversity of cultures can lead to more common values, the maintenance of good civil order and also to rich exchanges between communities and people of different cultures. The multiplicity of cultures strengthens social cohesion. Educated, integrated and respected communities participate in society which then becomes prosperous.

There is also an increase in open-mindedness, creativity and innovation within society. When people from different cultures and backgrounds come together, they come up with innovative solutions to all kinds of problems.

In return, Canadian authorities are massively deployed to enforce order. Thus, community life is done with respect and dignity. Programs and actions have been designed to preserve the different communities and protect them. There are anti-racism cells, in particular against Islamophobia and anti-Semitism.

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