In many discussions often Canada equals multiculturalism. And it is, I think. Multiculturalism definitely has an advantage. Whenever you bring different people together, something new and cool and useful can be created.
But apparently the word 'multiculturalism' has lost its initial meaning:
I like the pluralism word. I liked being 'Estonia' when I was studing in Canada. But when being a citizen, I would like to be a Canadian. But be part of different communities, Estonian being one of them.
One good paragraph from the article summarizing immigrants situation:
Immigrants should know they have an obligation to learn one of Canada’s official languages, to understand that the Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees both freedom of religion and expression, as well as women’s right to be treated equally. In turn, the host society has an obligation not just to recruit newcomers and their families, but also to find a place for them and to make use of their considerable talents. Immigrants care more about equal access to jobs, housing and education, than about support of cultural enrichment.
I was always surprised that people in Canada do not HAVE to learn the official language. In Estonia it is essential and for a reason.
And the other thing is this 'finding a place'. It still puzzles me how degrees and experiences acquired from the other countries just won't count in Canada. Oh, you were a highly appreciated plastic surgeon in Pakistan (or a kids doctor in Estonia etc)? Cool, but you need to do the entire medical doctor exam again in Canada. It is quite ridiculous. Actually, even when Canadians would study medicine outside of Canada, they need to do the North-American exams concurrently. It is also crazy.
And today my Canadian Estonian friend is seriously considering doing another Masters in Canada, as she can not find a job on her specialty otherwise.
