The notion of multiculturalism has been one of the pillars of Canadian identity, but it’s time we move to the next level of our relationship with one another and start building inclusive models of interaction where we, as a society, can go beyond celebrating our differences. We need to strengthen cohesiveness and focus on what brings us together. We have focussed enough on our cultural differences; let’s start thinking about what we have in common. We have a lot more in common than we have differences and if we start building on what we share, instead of emphasizing our minor differences, we will work together much more efficiently to achieve our objectives.
We all agree that Canada is a great place to live. Most of us have worked hard to get here and become Canadian or permanent resident. We want this country to be strong and prosperous. There are enough resources to ensure everyone has a job and those who can’t take care of themselves are taken care of. There shouldn’t be anyone without a home, health care and education. When we stop spending so much time and energy on highlighting our differences, we can start working together to ensure our actions are aligned with our values: respect for the environment, a strong and sustainable economic sector, an education and health care systems that are well funded and efficient, artists who are valued, and elders who are respected and taken care of. We all want to live in a society that takes care of its members since sooner or later, each one of us will be needing support.
With such an abundance of natural resources and know how, we can build transformation industries and create employment here, instead of shipping raw materials to be transformed elsewhere. We need to be at the forefront of the environmental movement and lead by example. We need to show the world we are a strong, united nation with a global mindset. We can turn our diversity into one of our greatest asset by allowing each and everyone to contribute the best of their abilities to foster economic activity, scientific research, health care, environmental solutions or industrial know-how. Instead of perpetuating stereotypes and barriers, let’s try something new. Let’s put aside “multiculturalism” for a while and see what happens when we perceive ourselves as a united force. A society where wealth is constantly generated by the great diversity of talents, adaptability, skills and creativity of its workforce.
There are enough challenges to keep us united and when we start finding our common voice as a nation, we will better be able to hold our politicians accountable and make sure our voice is heard. We have been governed for too long by a government that has no legitimacy. We don’t trust its motivations and don’t respect its goals – yet we are so divided in a mosaic of communities that we are not able to organize ourselves and affect change. What would happen if we set aside the mosaic and focussed on our common goals? We might be surprised at the strength of our voices when we bring them together. We may speak in different languages in our homes, but when we make political decisions, we do so in the language we all share and value: democracy.