Multiculturalism weakens national unity.

Hate and cultural conflict tend to divide a nation. Respect, inclusion and cooperation help unite a nation. Multiculturalism strengthens a nation through programmes which work towards cross cultural understanding, the elimination of racism, and the full participation of all individuals into the social, political and economic life of our society.

Because of multiculturalism, people think of themselves as members of their native countries first and as Canadians second.

Multiculturalism says we are all Canadians first. The existence of a Canadian identity does not deny one the right to maintain or explore one's cultural heritage(s). We all have a culture. The strength of Canadian identity is the understanding that unity can be achieved through diversity. Being a Canadian means that you have the right to be proud of your Canadian nationality and your cultural heritage.

When people come to Canada they should adopt our way of doing things. Why do we always have to change for them?

Newcomers are faced with making considerable adjustments to a new society. They also contribute to the social, economic and political fabric of our society. Multiculturalism promotes the integration of newcomers into an evolving society. The Canada we live in today is different from Canada fifty years ago and will be different from the Canada of the future. Societies evolve through time. Living in an evolving society requires all of us to adapt.

Multiculturalism is only song and dance events from other cultures. It isn't really important.

The priorities of provincial multiculturalism programmes are: cross cultural understanding; conflict resolution; elimination of racism; the full participation of all British Columbians into the social, economic and political life of British Columbia. Cultural festivals and the preservation of culture are not priorities of multiculturalism programming.

Multiculturalism is only for the benefit of new immigrants and visible minorities.

Multiculturalism benefits all Canadians by:

• creating a society free from racism
• promoting respect and appreciation of the cultural heritage(s) of all Canadians
• promoting the sharing of responsibilities for the creation of a fair society.

Multiculturalism allows visible minorities to think that they do not need to observe our laws.

Multiculturalism helps people to understand their rights and responsibilities in Canada including respect for the law. Multiculturalism also promotes a legal code and a justice system that are fair to all.