The Failure Of Multiculturalism In Canada

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Multiculturalism is a philosophy that every culture is morally valid and no one culture has a right to impose their values over another. Furthermore, the Oxford English Dictionary classifies it as the “characteristics of a multicultural society” and “ the policy or process whereby the distinctive identities of the cultural groups within such a society are maintain or supported.” The history of the ideology of multiculturalism has dated back to the 1970s, and is a popular issue that is debate by countries around the world. Although many prominent political figures like Britain's Prime Minister, David Cameron declared that “state multiculturalism has failed,” many still debate whether it was premature to end multiculturalism policies and whether…show more content…
Many countries such as Canada, France, Finland, and Sweden have integrated multiculturalism policies into their political systems. Canada being the first country in the world to adopt multiculturalism as an official policy, has demonstrated the sucessfulness and positives of multiculturalism. They have enacted many laws such as the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, which was passed in 1988 to preserve and strengthen multiculturalism in Canada. The essence of this act is to “preserve, enhance, and share their cultural heritage.” It ensures that all citizens are equal and that they are guaranteed their identities, allowing them the opportunity to take pride in their ancestry and have a sense of belonging. As a result creating more security, confidence, and greater acceptance of diverse cultures. Through multiculturalism, Canadians are encouraged to participate in social, cultural, economic, and political affairs. Canada’s unwavering support for diversity within their society has benefited them globally, in that their understanding of multiple languages and cultures facilitates their participation in education, trade and diplomacy around the world. Despite many misconceptions riding on the fact that multiculturalism depends on immigration, it is not the case in Canada. The various ethnic groups in Canada have established their own cultural identity and presence in the diverse population of the country. The multiculturalism policy in Canada has four key components that separate them from others. The first aspect being that their policy does not promote assimilation, and instead encourages ethnic groups to develop themselves as different groups in Canadian society. The
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