The federal government is bundling a series of days (June 21 – National Aboriginal Day; June 24 – Saint Jean Baptiste Day; June 27 – Canadian Multiculturalism Day; and July 1 – Canada Day) as the Celebrate Canada! initiative.
Let’s revisit the Proclamation that, in 2002, established Canadian Multiculturalism Day:
“Whereas multiculturalism is a fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage; Whereas Canadians of all backgrounds have made and continue to make valuable contributions to Canadian society; Whereas it is considered appropriate that there be, in each year, a day to mark and celebrate those contributions and to recognize Canadian diversity; And whereas, by Order in Council P.C. 2002-1869 of October 31, 2002, the Governor in Council has directed that a proclamation do issue declaring June 27 of each year as Canadian Multiculturalism Day, a celebration of the contributions of Canada’s diverse people to Canadian society; Now know you that We, by and with the advice of Our Privy Council for Canada, do by this Our Proclamation declare June 27 of each year as Canadian Multiculturalism Day, a celebration of the contributions of Canada’s diverse people to Canadian society”.
How relevant is official multiculturalism in Canada today? What’s the impact for immigrant children and families?
Ontario is recognizing several folks as Newcomer Champions – those who “help newcomers integrate and shape our diverse culture“. Two of the ten being honoured have some connection to children’s/family services. Awards presented tomorrow – Canadian Multiculturalism Day.
Canadian Multiculturalism Day is extremely relevant for immigrant children! Their talents can be appreciated and their heritage can be validated to and amongst their peers of all cultures. They do not feel peripheral to the majority cultures on that day.
Thanks for your comment, Nancy.
Are there events/activities that you know about or that the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada does on “Multiculturalism Day”?
& How about other days?
How do we acknowledge/address diversity among young children without exoticizing their “differences” through “days”.