On November 13, 2002, the Government of Canada, by Royal Proclamation, designated June 27 of each year Canadian Multiculturalism Day.
Canadian multiculturalism is fundamental to our belief that all citizens are equal. In 1988, Bill C-93 was passed as the Canadian Multiculturalism Act and became the first formal legislative vehicle for Canada’s multicultural policy. This policy was aimed at creating a society in which all citizens, regardless of their racial, ethnic or religious background, have an equal voice and share the opportunity to participate fully in our society.
Not all Canadians supported multiculturalism. We were regularly reminded in English-speaking Canada, some worried that recognizing multiculturalism as a distinguishing feature of our society might divide Canadians rather than unite them; that we might loose our distinctive rich British heritage. And in Quebec, many protested that multiculturalism would undermine Quebec nationalism. But today, a full 80 percent of Canadians say that multiculturalism enhances the value of Canadian citizenship, and roughly an equal number say they are proud that we are a multicultural country.
Travel Canada and you will soon realize that Canada’s mosaic communities are made up of many colours, race, languages, ethnic origins and citizenship. The one thing we have in common is our commitment to democracy, equality and mutual respect.
Canadian Multiculturalism Day is an opportunity to celebrate our cultural diversity and to get to know our neighbours. At Canadian Cultural Connection we say “There is no greater gift to the unification of Canada than the hospitality and kindness of one Canadian to another”.
Show your pride in being Canadian
Join the Canadian Unity Travel Club
www.canadianunitytravelclub.ca
info@canadianunitytravelclub.ca