In popular thinking, and according to its general image, Canada is considered to be open and welcoming to ethnocultural and religious diversity.
Immigration is perceived as an asset for Canada, and over the decades, multiculturalism has come to be considered a value to be protected and cherished. This can be seen in the 2020 General Social Survey, where 92 per cent of the population endorsed multiculturalism. The Canadian Multiculturalism Act states that multiculturalism is a “fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage and identity and that it provides an invaluable resource in the shaping of Canada’s future.”
However, since the Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7 and the Israeli bombardment of Gaza, the demonstrations that have followed — both in favour of, and against Israel or in support of Palestine — have revealed many tensions linked to immigration. Hate crimes are also on the rise; in Toronto alone, there are reports of a 132 per cent increase since the start of the conflict.
