Canadian Multiculturalism Act
The Canadian Multiculturalism Act () is a law of Canada, passed in 1988, that aims to preserve and enhance cultural diversity, i.e. multiculturalism, in Canada. Background. On 8 October 1971, Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau declared in the House of Commons of Canada that, after much deliberation, the policies of bilingualism and multiculturalism would be implemented in Canada. In other words, the Government of Canada would recognize and respect its society including its diversity in languages, , religions, and so on. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): "In 1971, Canada was the first country in the world  to adopt multiculturalism as an official policy." One result of this policy statement was the "Canadian Multiculturalism Act" of 1985. In 1982, multiculturalism was recognized by section 27 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the "Canadian Multiculturalism Act" was subsequently enacted by Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. Details. The preamble of the act declares that, The multiculturalism policy allows citizens to practice their religions and keep their identities without the fear of official persecution. It is believed by some that without this fear, Canadians are more willing to accept different cultures. The policy, therefore, emphasizes a mutual respect  between ethnicities and also acceptance of one's personal beliefs. This policy guarantees equality before the law and for pursuing opportunities whether personal, career, or in any other field. This means anyone of any race or ethnic origin is capable of pursuing his or her interests without persecution. Canadian law, as a result, reflects many of these rights and belief as they guaranteed to all men and women. All of these rights are guaranteed in the "Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms" which is part of the Canadian Constitution. The Parole Board of Canada writes that the act has two  fundamental principles: The act binds the federal government and its institutions to encourage, facilitate, assist and undertake several high-minded goals. The Minister may also enter into agreements with provincial and foreign governments to promote these goals. Other ministers may enter into agreements with the provinces. The "Canadian multiculturalism advisory committee" is established in Section 7, and the Minister is charged with the annual composition of a report on the operation of the act. Content. The "Canadian Multiculturalism Act" affirms the policy of the Government of Canada to ensure that every Canadian receives equal treatment by the government which respects  and celebrates diversity. The act also: Section 3. Section 3 (1) of the act states: