Sociology 211

September 24, 2004

Principles of multiculturalism in the Canadian Multiculturalism Act

Diversity

·     Cultural and racial diversity of Canada. 3: 1 (a) (h)  3:2 (c)  5:1 (c)

·     Preserve, enhance and share cultural heritage. 3: 1 (a)  5:1 (e) (h)

·         Recognize and enhance development of communities of common origin. 3:1 (d)

·     Respecting and valuing diversity. 3: 1 (e)

·         Interaction between individuals and communities of different origin. 3:1 (g)

·     Promote reflection and evolving expressions of culture.  3:1 (h)

·     Languages: preserve and enhance; acquire, retain, use 3:1 (i)  5:1 (f)

·         Multicultural reality 3:2 (d) (f)

 

Equality

·     Equal treatment and equal protection under law for all individuals. 3: 1 (e)

·     Full and equitable participation of individuals and communities. 3: 1 (c)  5:1 (d)

·     Equal opportunity for employment and advancement in federal institutions. 3:2 (a)

 

Overcoming Barriers

·     Elimination of any barriers to participation. 3: 1 (c)

·         Overcoming discriminatory barriers, including race, national, or ethnic origin. 5:1 (g)

·     Encourage institutions to be inclusive.  3:1  (f)

 

Harmony

·     Respect, recognition and appreciation.  3:1 (f) (h)  3:2 (c)  5:1 (d)

·     Understanding. 3:1 (a) (g)  3:2 (c)

·     Harmony. 3:1 (j)

·         Sensitive and responsive. 3:2 (f)

·         Exchanges and cooperation, sharing.  5:1 (c) (e)

 

Resource

·     Fundamental characteristic of Canadian heritage and identity. 3: 1 (b)

·     Resource in shaping of Canada’s future. 3: 1 (b)

·         Participation in and contribution to evolution and shaping of Canadian society. 3:1 (c) 3:2 (b)

·     Creativity. 3:1 (g)

·     Historic contribution to Canadian society.  3:1 (d)

·     Make use of language skill and cultural understanding.  3:2 (e)

·     Value diversity.  3:1 (e)

Note:  Numbers and letters in the box refer to sections or subsections of the Canadian Multiculturalism Act.   Available at http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/C-18.7/.  Principles and organization of themes adapted from Paul Gingrich and Chrisopher J. Fries.  1996. “A ‘Great’ Large Family: Understandings of Multiculturalism Among Newcomers to Canada,” paper presented at the National Symposium on Immigration and Integration: New Challenges, Winnipeg, October 1996.