June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day. This annual celebration provides us with an opportunity to reflect and uphold the values of diversity and contributions of people of all cultural backgrounds that make up the collective identity of this country and our province. Multiculturalism is one of Canada’s great strengths. This year’s theme for Canadian Multiculturalism Day is ‘Embrace it, Share it, and Celebrate it.’
Embrace Multiculturalism Day
British Columbia remains the most ethnically diverse province in Canada. It is home to more than 200 First Nations, Metis, Inuit and urban Indigenous communities. It is also home to residents who trace their origins to hundreds of countries and regions worldwide. Recent trends, including the rise of hate incidents, remind us that work still needs to be done. Being a multicultural and diverse society means we must actively work to remove systemic barriers. Here are two ways we can actively remove systemic barriers:
- Report a Hate Crime – We have the right and the responsibility to take action against hate activity to keep our communities safe. If you are a target or witness an incident of racism or hate, report it to the police. Don’t let hate have a place in BC.
- Familiarize yourself with the Anti-Racism Data Act – This act breaks down barriers for people to access programs, ensures racialized people aren’t disproportionately targeted, and improves programs and services so more people feel safe getting the help they need.
Share Multiculturalism Day
The Whistler Multicultural Society invites all community members to contact them if you want to share an aspect of your culture and/or tradition in the upcoming 2023 Whistler Multicultural Festival.
“Sharing culture can be a real empowerment and validation, supporting self-identity and providing an important way to contribute to the wider community. The connections made in the process can provide an invaluable support framework to help newcomers cope and adjust while intercultural understanding created can form a pathway to welcoming new and different ways of doing.”
23 June 2023 | 4:00 – 8:00pm | Whistler Public Library and Library Plaza
Celebrate Multiculturalism Day
Experiencing the rich diversity of cultures and traditions encourages understanding and open-mindedness amongst different groups of people and dispels negative stereotypes. It has the power to strengthen social cohesion and create a sense of belonging.
Join the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Katzie Local Immigration Partnership in their Canadian Multiculturalism Day Celebration. This event will display cultural harmony and inclusivity while showcasing the community’s rich diversity. There will be music and dancing performances, a fashion show, food trucks, activities for children and more. The event will also feature an interactive community art display and is designed to bring together individuals from various cultural backgrounds.
June 24th | 10:00am – 2:00pm | Memorial Peace Park, Maple Ridge, BC
There are many other events happening around BC to celebrate Canadian Multiculturalism Day, and we encourage you to join in the celebration of the diversity of this beautiful place we call home. And, as we continue to welcome more immigrants to this country, it is more important than ever to ensure that all citizens can keep their identities, take pride in their ancestry, and have a sense of belonging. While Canadian Multiculturalism Day provides us with an opportunity to showcase and highlight diversity, there are opportunities in our daily practices that allow us to embrace, share and celebrate each other. Head to our Settlement Information for Newcomers page to find information in your community.