Post-election, Canada must recognize truth about multiculturalism
"We believe in our hearts that this country's unique diversity is a blessing bestowed upon us by previous generations of Canadians. We know that our enviable, inclusive society didn't happen by accident and won't continue without effort."- Prime Minister designate Justin Trudeau, excerpt from victory speech Monday
Justin Trudeau's message was clear: a Canadian is a Canadian is a Canadian. His championing of Canada's 'unique diversity' stood in stark contrast to Stephen Harper's campaign that included references to "old stock Canadians", the "barbaric cultural practices" hotline, and of course, the niqab.
Today we're asking if Justin Trudeau's 'enviable and inclusive' Canada is who we really are and what he should do to revive the country's multicultural values that he championed in his victory speech.
- Rinaldo Walcott is the Director of Women and Gender Studies Institute at the the University of Toronto.
- Shireen Ahmed is a social activist and writer.
- Rima Berns-McGown teaches diaspora studies at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
In your experience, how inclusive is Canada? What actions would you like to see the government take to improve that?
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This segment was produced by Pacinthe Mattar, Karin Marley and Josh Flear.