Today is Canadian Multiculturalism day. Canada is a nation that embraces multiculturalism officially. This Day celebrates Canada’s cultural richness and diversity and the contributions made by various ethnic groups and communities to Canadian society.
Canadian multiculturalism is fundamental to the belief that all citizens are equal. Multiculturalism ensures that all citizens can keep their identities, can take pride in their ancestry and have a sense of belonging. Acceptance gives Canadians a feeling of security and self-confidence, making them more open to, and accepting of, diverse cultures. The Canadian experience has shown that multiculturalism encourages racial and ethnic harmony and cross-cultural understanding, and discourages ghettoization, hatred, discrimination and violence.
Through multiculturalism, Canada recognizes the potential of all Canadians, encouraging them to integrate into their society and take an active part in its social, cultural, economic and political affairs.
In Canadian cities, many among the most multicultural in the world, The Salvation Army strives to meet the language and spiritual needs of newcomers by establishing culturally specific churches and encouraging multicultural churches.
In a multicultural church, every member is considered an equal part of the church family. Relationships are built that go beyond superficial talk.
The willingness to form friendships with people of other cultures is an attitude to embrace. Racism, prejudice, discrimination and insensitivity are barriers that prevent us from learning about each other’s cultures.
Two years ago Zhen Li and his wife, Vivien, arrived at Pearson International Airport in Toronto, excited and anxious as all the other skilled immigrants although their future was unknown. The Salvation Army’s multicultural church ministry gave them practical assistance and spiritual support. Zhen has transformed his family into a Christian family and is using his skills as program researcher for The Salvation Army Immigrant and Refugee Services.
Lets celebrate, appreciate, respect, value and care for all cultures and races. It may be conversation in a supermarket, a visit with a neighbour or lunch with someone in the workplace. People immigrate not only for reasons of economics or persecution, but also to embrace a new culture.