Diversity, Identity & The Future · Term 4

The Road to Multiculturalism

The evolution from bilingualism to the 1988 Multiculturalism Act.

About This Topic

Canada's transition from a 'bicultural' (British and French) identity to an officially 'multicultural' one was a major social shift in the late 20th century. This topic explores the 1971 Multiculturalism Policy introduced by Pierre Trudeau, which recognized that Canada is a 'mosaic' of many cultures and that all citizens should be able to maintain their heritage while participating fully in Canadian life. Students examine how this policy led to the 1988 Multiculturalism Act, the first of its kind in the world.

The curriculum focuses on the evolution of diversity in Canada and the debate over whether multiculturalism promotes social cohesion or fragmentation. Students investigate how the policy has been implemented in areas like education, broadcasting, and government services. This topic benefits from analyzing the 'mosaic vs. melting pot' models and collaborative investigations into the impact of multiculturalism on local communities. Students grasp the significance of this shift faster through peer-led discussions and by reflecting on their own cultural identities and experiences.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the shift in Canadian government policy from a bicultural framework to a multicultural one.
• Evaluate the 1988 Canadian Multiculturalism Act's impact on national identity and social policy.
• Compare the 'mosaic' and 'melting pot' societal models in the context of Canadian immigration history.
• Explain the key arguments for and against multiculturalism as a national policy.

Before You Start

Foundations of Canadian Confederation

Why: Understanding the initial formation of Canada and its founding peoples provides essential context for the later evolution of national identity.

Early Immigration Patterns to Canada

Why: Knowledge of historical immigration waves and policies is necessary to analyze the changing demographics that influenced multiculturalism.

Key Vocabulary

Biculturalism	A policy or societal view that recognizes and promotes two dominant cultural groups, historically the French and British in Canada.
Multiculturalism Policy (1971)	The initial federal policy recognizing Canada as a 'mosaic' of cultures, supporting the preservation of heritage while encouraging participation in society.
Canadian Multiculturalism Act (1988)	The federal law that enshrined multiculturalism as a fundamental principle of Canadian society, aiming to ensure equality and participation for all.
Mosaic vs. Melting Pot	Two models of cultural integration: 'mosaic' where cultures retain distinctiveness, and 'melting pot' where cultures assimilate into a dominant one.

Active Learning Ideas

Inquiry Circle: The Mosaic vs. The Melting Pot

In small groups, students compare the Canadian 'mosaic' model of multiculturalism with the American 'melting pot' model. They discuss the goals of each and the potential benefits and challenges for both individuals and society.

⏱ 45 min·Small Groups

Generate mission

Think-Pair-Share: What is the Multiculturalism Act?

Students read a summary of the 1988 Multiculturalism Act. They discuss with a partner what the act actually guarantees and whether they think it is still a relevant and effective law for Canada today.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Gallery Walk: Celebrating Diversity

Set up stations with images and stories of different cultural festivals, community centers, and multicultural programs in Canada. Students move through the gallery, noting how the policy of multiculturalism is reflected in their own communities.

⏱ 40 min·Pairs

Generate mission

Real-World Connections

Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) adjudicators apply principles of the Multiculturalism Act daily when assessing refugee claims and ensuring fair treatment for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The Toronto Public Library's extensive collection of materials in over 30 languages and its programming for newcomers directly reflect the implementation of multiculturalism in public services.

CBC/Radio-Canada's broadcasting policies, including requirements for diverse content and representation, are shaped by the Multiculturalism Act's mandate to reflect Canada's diverse population.

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Multiculturalism means that everyone just does their own thing and doesn't care about Canada.

What to Teach Instead

The policy emphasizes that all citizens share a common commitment to Canada and its values, while also being free to maintain their cultural heritage. Peer discussion about 'shared values and diverse identities' helps students understand the goal of inclusive citizenship.

Common Misconception

Multiculturalism was always a popular and uncontroversial policy.

What to Teach Instead

The policy has faced criticism from those who fear it weakens national unity and from those in Quebec who felt it undermined their 'bicultural' status. Using a 'Perspectives on Multiculturalism' analysis helps students see the ongoing debate over the policy.

Assessment Ideas

Discussion Prompt

Pose the question: 'Was Canada's move to multiculturalism an unavoidable historical progression or a strategic political decision?' Have students discuss in small groups, citing specific historical events or political motivations as evidence for their arguments.

Exit Ticket

Ask students to write two sentences: one explaining a key difference between the 1971 policy and the 1988 Act, and another sentence evaluating whether the Act has been successful in promoting social cohesion in Canada.

Quick Check

Provide students with short case studies of individuals or communities in Canada. Ask them to identify which aspects of the Multiculturalism Act are relevant to each case and briefly explain why.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Canada adopt an official policy of multiculturalism in 1971?

It was a response to the growing diversity of the Canadian population and the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism. Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau believed that recognizing all cultures would help to unite the country and promote equality.

What is the Canadian Multiculturalism Act?

Passed in 1988, it was the world's first national multiculturalism law. It aims to preserve and enhance multiculturalism in Canada, to promote the full and equitable participation of all individuals in Canadian society, and to recognize the diversity of the Canadian population as a fundamental characteristic of our identity.

How does the 'mosaic' model differ from the 'melting pot'?

The 'mosaic' model (Canada) encourages different ethnic groups to maintain their unique cultural identities while coexisting as part of a larger whole. The 'melting pot' model (US) traditionally emphasizes the assimilation of different groups into a single, common national culture.

How can active learning help students understand multiculturalism?

Active learning strategies, such as investigating the 'mosaic' model and debating the policy's impact, help students understand the social and political dimensions of diversity. By engaging with the different perspectives and the real-world applications of the policy, students move beyond seeing multiculturalism as just a 'nice idea' to seeing it as a core part of Canadian identity and law. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusion and the challenges of building a diverse society.