The best way to learn about any culture is to take part in it. This is a good way to learn how people in Canada live. Learning about Canadian history and values before you arrive is also a good idea.
Every society has values which make it unique and are important to its members. Many Canadians feel that our values are part of what makes Canada an attractive place to live. It is impossible to provide a simple description of Canadian culture and values. You have to experience it for yourself. If you want to understand more about Canadian values, ask a friend or consult the New Canadians Centre; they can provide some advice.
Canada is a large country that has distinct geographical regions. Each of these regions has its own traditions and customs, but many values are common in all parts of the country.
A democratic nation, Canada has a value system that is founded on equality, freedom, and respect for all individuals in society. This is reflected in theCanadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, legislation which is a part of theCanadian Constitution.The Canadian Multiculturalism Actis a piece of legislation that is meant to preserve and enhance diversity in Canada. The Canadian Human Rights Actprovides Canadians with protection from discrimination and harassment.
In recognition that Canada is one of the world’s most successful pluralist societies, theGlobal Centre for Pluralismchose to locate its major new international institution in Ottawa. Established there, it can work in collaboration with the Government of Canada and Canadian institutions. The Centre is dedicated to the promotion of successful pluralist societies and the study, practice and teaching of pluralism worldwide.
As Canada is a multicultural society, you can help to enrich the community by sharing your culture.
Some information about Canadian culture and identity can be found on the following websites:
- TheVirtual Museum of Canadacontains virtual exhibits, educational materials and many pictures, with over 2,500 Canadian museums. VMC brings together Canada’s museums regardless of size and geographical location.
- Canadian Historyarticles from the Government of Canada
- Multicultural Canada– a digitization project that grew from the conviction that the cultural groups that makeup Canada had little-known stories that needed to be researched and told
- Making the Mosaic: Multiculturalism in Canadafrom the CBC Archives
- An American Guide to Canada: How to Tell you are in Canada, a humorous view of the differences between Canada and the United States
- Guide toCanadian etiquettefrom Tripadvisor.ca
