The Issue of Multiculturalism - Term Paper Example

MULTICULTURALISM Introduction There has been an increasing debate on the issue of Multiculturalism across the word in respect to the high rate of immigration experienced in Europe and the west. Several countries present different ideology towards this concept and the outcome is always different. Taking the case of Canada, the issue of Multiculturalism has gained political momentum in major cities like Vancouver among others. In regard to urban politics, there is need to tackle the relationship between pluralist policy in connection to Multiculturalism concept that has been part of Canadian community for decades now. The political and demographic aspect of Multiculturalism has received a considerably high level of importance in society today. This refers to the diversity of two or more cultures in the same region or country (Kymlicka, 2012). A comparative analysis and evaluation of various countries policies on immigration shows a clear disparity in terms of level of acceptance and recognition of the minority immigrant community by the natives. Europe still lags behind in terms of adjusting their rules to accommodate immigrants among themselves and treat them as equal in terms of socio-cultural and political rights and privileges. United States has been promoting a similar cultural diversification campaign but is yet to fully realize its efforts. Canada is at the center of multiculturalism debate due to its popular positive approach that stands out in terms of global cultural tolerance rating. Today, the world experiences the highest level of globalization, thus people from different cultures have been forced to interact and live together. For this reason, multiculturalism remains an important aspect in the 21st Century. Purpose of the proposal This proposal explores the aspect of multiculturalism and its importance in society today. It takes a particular look at the case of Canada where this social concept has gained much prominence and highest comparative unity. The political input into the issue within urban centers in Canada gives an insight into the positive contribution of multiculturalism in the society. Although there are four aspects of multiculturalism i.e. demographic, prescriptive, holistic, and political, we narrow it down to a specific case to exhaust the factors surrounding its applicability. This proposal will first explore the meaning of multiculturalism in broad terms. This is important, as different people have assigned meaning to this term, based on different principles. However, it will be core to understand multiculturalism as being grounded in the phenomenon of diversity. The critical understanding of multiculturalism will serve as the basis of further arguments towards its relevance in the contemporary society and the reason behind its increased resistance by the European nations. Statement of the problem The society is composed of individuals from different social backgrounds and this explains the varied opinions and views on several issues. It is therefore important to underscore the undisputable presence of diversity in any social set up in regard to race, ethnicity, color, and religious beliefs and this explains the varying perceptions of different phenomena in society. These tend to either agree or disagree, or like or dislike a phenomenon, based on their attitudes and perceptions. This also applies to the aspect of multiculturalism in which persons from diverse social backgrounds make attempts to speak same language, enjoy same rights and privileges as enshrined in the constitution of a given country. Multiculturalism remains a controversial issue in many regions, including Canada, United States and Europe as far urban politics and cultural diversity is concerned (Mitchell, 2004). The controversy surrounding this concept in the above mentioned places arises from the native population resistance towards the immigrants due to perceived threat of their cultural erosion, fear of terrorism in regard to the Muslim faithful and political polarization as is the case with United States. While some people consider it negative, some view it as positive based on different premises. Nonetheless, the importance of multiculturalism is quite evident, thus it is important to explore the evidence that show that multiculturalism is important in the modern society. Thesis Statement/central argument It is critical to explore the concept of multiculturalism in wider and deeper perspective since it holds key to the social integration around the world. In this era of globalization, it is common to come by several immigrants either as asylum seekers, refugees or illegally human trafficking victims. The host communities presents an environment that dictates the possibility of assimilation or otherwise. The political fraternity also has significant influence on the possibility of achieving multiculturalism positive goals and minimizing its effects in terms of constitutional structuring. In that respect, a key argument in this proposal is that multiculturalism is a critical and common issue in the contemporary society, and so people and political authorities need to embrace and develop this phenomenon, in order to realize development in various aspects of their lives and country. It promotes appreciation of socio-economic diversity by different individuals in the society hence promote social integration which is a recipe to peaceful co-existence and respect to humanity in general. However, it poses real threat in equal measuring considering the global political dynamism and varied religious inclination like the case of radical Muslims that are associated with security of the world. Methods and procedures This topic is sensitive and relevant to the contemporary society and therefore derives its facts and figures from past and present experiences as highlighted in scholarly works. In order to provide evidence to support the argument in this proposal, the method of literature review will be utilized. In this method, evidence will be drawn from past literature, which has focused on multiculturalism, as well as how this is important for the realization of development in the life of an individual, and in society as a whole. In-depth research on secondary data from libraries, government publications, opinion leaders among other sources would provide the suitable ground for relevant information. Several sources of information boost the credibility, reliability and validity of the presented facts about the subject of study thereby enhancing chances of accuracy on findings, outcome and recommendations. Evidence and sources that will be used to support the argument The sources used will be drawn from various most currently published journals. In total, seven journal articles will be utilized towards ascertaining the theoretical claims made towards multiculturalism and the information gap that needs to be filled. These are published in various journals, and focus on the issue of multiculturalism and the emerging trend on political body’s argument towards the idea. By exploring different journals, the diverse views of the authors will strengthen the claims about observed trend towards multiculturalism in Canada and other parts of the world. Using these sources will help to support the argument that has been advanced in the proposal. Significance of the study The idea of multiculturalism will provide a better explanation to the persistent observed discrimination in foreign countries by immigrants against the effect of globalization. This means urge to interrogate various political entities on their view towards the benefits and disadvantages of multiculturalism towards economic development across the world. Canada case is a critical point of reference has it is known to be the best implementer of necessary policies that accommodates people from various cultural background in the interest of inclusive national cohesion and development agenda. Literature review Although several theories have been advanced towards multiculturalism, fact-finding is critical in any research work and this explains continuous investigation into the concept. It is a common phenomenon in various parts of Europe and United States but has gained much recognition in Canada. It is therefore important to underscore the significant role Canada has played in showing the world positive arguments towards this issue. On the other hand, Europe has equally been on the forefront of the heated debate on the effects of this phenomenon in its entirety. According to Kymlicka (2012), it is therefore worth to note that diverse opinions and vies are held against multiculturalism according to each individual country. It is a significant factor in political and economic policies as the population contributes towards such socio-economic indicators. The natives and the immigrant minorities present a tricky policy making by the government in various aspects. This includes language, food, cultural heritage definition, political agenda and national security measures. The case of Canada has been a successful one but there are emerging aspects of this phenomenon that continue to threaten its sustainable implementation by the government. Although the host community can offer resistance towards immigrant minority, the government input is key to the success or failure of the process. The immigration policy and constitutional acknowledgement of foreign blood in the country is critical in providing them with incentives to assimilate or incite the citizen’s to remain indifferent towards the other cultural identities. As evidenced by the recent public sentiments of German Chancellor Angela merkel and her British counterparty Cameron on their increasing concern on the growing size of immigrants and the economic burden they pose. These are typical cases of political leaders approach in dealing a blow to the success of multiculturalism. The United States has a history of discrimination against the black minority and the immigrant community and has suffered significantly in an effort to reconcile this scenario to the modern globalization trend. With the focus on global security and cultural preservation, the majority whites have in the past given little attention to the interests of the immigrant community and this is a case of alienation (Mitchell, 2004). Although the government has not come clear on its side of support, it is evident that the assimilation efforts are thwarted by the economically more empowered white majority. Canada is a unique case where the political will has propelled the phenomenon to greater heights. In discussing this concept in relation to Canada, the impact is focused towards political factors and the resulting outcome of either embracing the diversity or discriminating against them. Research shows that due to the leniency of Canadian government on immigrants and ease of assimilation has seen it absorb a significant foreign population from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds. This has pushed the government to adopt pluralist policy which incorporates an inclusive socio-economic agenda that is common and applicable across the entire citizens. This includes promoting demographic distribution and free mingling in social events on the basis of one language. There are various indicators on the progress of this phenomenon in any given society. These are derived from the cultural diversification aspect of the immigrants in relation to local norms and practices. Language is one such factor which defines the level of integration and extent of assimilation within the society. In some instances where the host community resists co-operation with the outsiders, the immigrants will cluster in the same geographical location within the urban center and retain their language despite their occupation of new lands. For an assimilated community, the natives freely interact with the other cultural entities thereby encouraging uptake of local language and accent. This is passed on to generations and matures to yield cultural homogeneity in terms of language. Government involvement takes more than immigration policies but includes promotion of multicultural festivals that seeks to enhance appreciation of each individual’s background. Unlike other nations’ view towards multiculturalism, Canada has worked against all odds to provide safe haven for immigrants by promoting assimilation into its two official languages and recognition of the foreign cultures through organizing and funding of such festivals for national unity (Hyman, Meinhard, & Shields, 2011). This has been seen in an increased supply of diverse foodstuffs that meet the demands of its diversified cultures. Government campaign towards equal rights and privileges for the citizens despite their background has been critical to the increased unity. There are several advantages that multiculturalism accrues to the society as has been the case with Canada. In terms of food, Canadian supermarkets, grocery stores, markets, delicatessens, cafes, restaurants and take-away stores offer an enormous variety of foods from around the world. These foods have not only been incorporated into the mainstream Canadian diet but they have equally become the basis for much of Canadians social life. This has significantly promoted commercial food supply which has great economic sense and multicultural appreciation. Considering the art and architectural evolution that Canadian cities have gone through, it is possible to attribute multiculturalism aspect towards this observation. Major cities like Vancouver, Toronto among others has experienced significant immigrant population from Arab world, Africa, Asia Europe and other parts of the globe and this is responsible for the mixed racial and ethnic presence in the country. As they settle in Canada, the immigration policy promotes freedom of assimilation and retention of individual cultures (Bryson, 2002). Although there are various controversies, which are linked to multiculturalism even in Canada, some scholars and researchers point out that multiculturalism, apart from being a demographic issue has an impact on intergroup relations, as well as political participation in the modern democracies. Additionally, although critics of multiculturalism argue that it leads to social fragmentation and inequality, the case of Canada also identify the positive influence of multiculturalism as leading to equality and social recognition. Equality and social recognition in a country is key to harmony, cohesion, and development which have kept Canada growing in peace. It is imperative that an argument for government’s role in multiculturalism is debated in regard to Canada to establish the cause-effect relationship that characterizes this phenomenon. It is notable that these various cultures brings with them diverse religions and customs. Sometimes other Canadians take part in these, particularly through cultural festivals. Some of these religions, particularly Buddhism and Islam, have been taken up by people in the broader Canadian community. This is a strange observation to many who have been to Europe and United States where the Muslim community is put on focus and faces significant discrimination as a result of their perceived link with terrorism activities across the world (Song,2005). Within Canadian cities like Vancouver, Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Halifax among others are cultural enclaves, groups of suburbs where many people from particular cultures live. Some of these become popular have become tourist spots. Since mainstream Canadian society has become accustomed to new languages, religious faiths and cultural practices, it has become more tolerant to multiculturalism and pluralist phenomenon than it was before (Rodríguez-garcía, 2010). There is increased greater understanding of other parts of the world and more tolerance of different cultural lifestyles. Canada now has many subcultures, particularly in the larger cities which attracts many immigrants. This accumulation of socio-cultural diversity has put the government on it toes in regard to management of the civil society through reconciling the natives and immigrant minority when it comes to expression of political views through voting and other electoral participations. Although multiculturalism is beneficial to the general society, it poses significant cultural erosion challenge to the immigrant’s successive generation. It is important that despite assimilation one is able to trace his identity. This is difficult as the successive generations take up local language, food and overall lifestyle and gradually deviates away from their cultural roots. This is counterproductive to the desire for cultural diversity which needs to be presented in form of annual festivals by each particular ethnic group (Pitcher, 2009). The cultural mix up in urban centers in Canada presents social challenges in form of undesirable emerging behaviors with considerable effect on the social order of the larger society. Despite the Canadian government efforts to promote multiculturalism as a positive gesture towards economic boost, traces of Eurocentric policy direction has remained a stumbling block. The majority of the natives still holds close their reservations and practice near exclusive cultural recognition that seemingly isolate immigrants. This has considerable political costs and frustrates the effort of the government to instill the spirit of equality as an aspect of pluralist approach in this multicultural society. In the case of Europe and United states, multiculturalism has not been fully embraced from a longstanding historical racial segregation that has led to clustering of various communities in a particular place as is the case with the black Americans and Non-Hispanic minority communities. The same trend is observed in Europe which experience perennial influx of immigrants from Africa and Asia. Conclusion It can be concluded from the case of Canada that multiculturalism has far reaching benefits in promoting globalization and enhancing intercultural tolerance in the society. Although there are emerging issues like the radical Muslim jihad that is associated with Islam religion, the overall benefits of multiculturalism is critical for realizing the much talked about equality in terms of access to social, economic and political resources. References Kymlicka, W. (2012). Multiculturalism: Successes, failure, and the Future. Migration Policy Institute. Retrieved from http://www.migrationpolicy.org/pubs/multiculturalism.pdf Hyman, I., Meinhard, A., & Shields, J. (2011). The Role of Multiculturalism Policy in Addressing Social Inclusion Processes in Canada. http://www.cmef.ca/Portals/7/The-Role-of-Multiculturalism-Policy-in-Addressing-Social-Inclusion-Processes-in-Canada.pdf Howarth, C. & Andreouli, E. (n.d). ‘Has multiculturalism failed?’ The importance of lay knowledge and everyday practice.” Retrieved from http://www.lse.ac.uk/socialPsychology/faculty/caroline_howarth/Howarth-and-Andreouli-paper-FINAL.pdf Song, S. (2005). Majority norms, multiculturalism, and gender equality. The American Political Science Review, 99(4), 473-489. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/214413512?accountid=45049 Pitcher, B. (2009). The global politics of multiculturalism. Development, 52(4), 456-459. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1057/dev.2009.58 Rodríguez-garcía, D. (2010). Beyond assimilation and multiculturalism: A critical review of the debate on managing diversity. Journal of International Migration and Integration, 11(3), 251-271. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12134-010-0140-x Mitchell, K. (2004). Geographies of identity: Multiculturalism unplugged. Progress in Human Geography, 28(5), 641-651. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1191/0309132504ph510pr Bryson, B. (2002). Working definitions: Educational organization and the meaning of multiculturalism. The International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, 22(1-3), 175-207. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/203706390?accountid=45049 Read More