Multiculturalism Policy in Canada

Abstract

Abstract The year 2021 represents the 50th anniversary of the adoption of multiculturalism in Canada. Clearly, multiculturalism policy has stood the test of time. However, more than sheer longevity is involved. In programmatic terms, multiculturalism has advanced the goals that animated its introduction in 1971. It has helped to change the terms of integration for immigrant communities, laying to rest ideas of assimilation, and creating space for minorities to maintain and celebrate aspects of their culture and traditions while participating in the mainstream of Canadian life. In addition, multiculturalism has been part of a broad state-led redefinition of national identity, helping to build a more inclusive sense of nationalism. Judged by these original goals, the multiculturalism program has met with considerable success. However, multiculturalism has limits. It has not eliminated racial inequality, and the commitment to diversity seems fragile at times, most recently in the case of Muslims. In addition, multiculturalism has been a conflicted political success. The policy is not embedded in a comprehensive political consensus, and potent political challenges have emerged in the name of social conservatism and Québec nationalism. Nonetheless, the policy has had sufficient political support to survive at the national level for half a century. In effect, multiculturalism is a case of conflicted political success and resilient program success. Moreover, judged by the experience of democratic countries generally, Canadian multiculturalism seems even more successful. Perhaps most importantly, the policy has arguably helped to forestall the type of anti-immigrant backlash we have seen elsewhere.