Does The 1971 Policy Of Multiculturalism Had On Canadian Immigrants?

Canada often prides itself on its cultural diversity and multiculturalism, accepting individuals and cultures from around the world. The acceptance of these individuals arose from the Canadian Multiculturalism policy of 1971, which was critical in shifting Canada’s approach to diversity and immigration. The Canadian federal government can be viewed as the “instigator of multiculturalism” (Banting, Kymlicka, 2016) because of their understanding of the social importance of immigration. In order to understand the acceptance of cultural diversity and integration of immigrants into Canadian society, it is crucial to ask the question of what impacts the 1971 policy of multiculturalism had on Canadian immigrants? The key objectives of the multiculturalism

On October 8, 1971, Liberal government leader, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, announced that the policies of bilingualism and multiculturalism would be adopted in Canada (Banting, Kymlicka, 2016). Through recognizing the value of cultural communities across Canada, the multiculturalism policy aided to create a more inclusive society that celebrated the diversity of these immigrant groups. During the formative period of this policy, the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism handled the immigration of non-English ethnic groups to the cultural advancement of Canada. The commission advised the “integration [not assimilation] of citizens into Canadian society” (Banting, Kymlicka, 2016). This policy helped promote the cultural identity of Canadian immigrants by accepting the value of the different cultural identities and backgrounds. As a result of this policy, immigrants were encouraged to embrace their heritage and cultural identities, rather than be pressured to assimilate into Canadian norms and values. I'M GOING TO ADD HOW THIS ALLOWS IMMIGRANTS TO BROADEN THEIR HORIZONS AND DO THINGS LIKE GET JOBS AND BECOME LEADERS OF

The policy of multiculturalism has been crucial in promoting the integration of immigrants into Canadian society, including language rights. Language is a key aspect of cultural identity and is essential to the integration of immigrants in a social and economic setting. Canada’s policy of multiculturalism recognizes the importance of language rights and not only promotes the use of both official languages, English and French, but also encourages the acceptance of the native languages of immigrants residing in Canada (Balan, Packer, 2023). According to a study about multiculturalism policies, Canada’s multiculturalism policy has been exceedingly successful in promoting the integration of immigrants, specifically in regards to promoting their language rights (Banting, Kymilack, 2017). According to their study, they note how language training programs have been critical, stating that “Canada’s investment in language has been central to the success of its integration policies” (Banting, Kymilack, 2017; 588). To also improve the access that immigrants have to services and resources in Canada, “language training and integration programmes are provided by governments free of charge” (Banting, Kymlicka, 2013; 588). Furthermore, the multiculturalism policy allows for the increased tolerance, inclusivity and sense of belonging for Immigrants entering Canada,