The Canadian experience with multiculturalism and employment equity: Lessons for Europe

Abstract

Canada has been at the forefront of states that have embraced official policies which not only respect but encourage pluralism and equality policies within public institutions and the surrounding society. This article examines some of the pros and cons of Canada's legislated and state‐supported multiculturalism and equal employment opportunity policy. Whereas the latter intends to address prejudice, discrimination, and inequality in the workplace, multiculturalism supports the expression and retention of voluntary collective identification reflecting a pragmatic response to practical problems for reasons of national identity, political unity, economic advantage, demographic need, and domestic peace as well as for international status and prestige. After providing an overview of major milestones and the rationale of the Canadian brand of multiculturalism and equity policy, this article explores how these concepts have been legitimised by proponents and criticised by adversaries as an ideology, institutionalised policy, and ethno‐political movement. Finally, it will be asked what European nation‐states can learn from the Canadian experience in responding to the challenges posed to their own societies.