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To make sure we are all talking about the same thing, may I first offer you the official definition of multiculturalism in Canada. It does not mean “multiethnic,” which is a fact, as in “I live in a multiethnic neighbourhood.” Multiculturalism is a doctrine that can be criticized.

So here it is.

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“It is hereby declared to be the policy of the Government of Canada to a) recognize and promote the understanding that multiculturalism reflects the cultural and racial diversity of Canadian society and acknowledges the freedom of all members of Canadian society to preserve, enhance and share their cultural heritage.” — Canadian Multiculturalism Act

It seems that public conversations about immigration, diversity and especially multiculturalism are verboten in Canada. To mention the advantages of integration, on any tone, in any manner, smacks of colonialism, it seems.

When have we become fearful of confronting in the public square issues that are openly discussed in people’s homes and places of work? Why are a German chancellor and a British prime minister able to question the benefits of multiculturalism without being called racists while we go crazy when an elected Member of Parliament does the same thing in a series of tweets?