Life in Canada
How Cultural Diversity Shapes Canadian Identity Today?
Canada has always been synonymous with diversity, but recent research shows the country’s cultural landscape is transforming faster than ever. A groundbreaking study commissioned by AV Communications and Ipsos reveals that being “Canadian” is no longer about choosing between cultural identity and national identity. Instead, it’s about embracing both.
With 84% of Canadians recognizing that their cultural and Canadian identities coexist, the narrative of a “new” Canada is emerging—one where diversity is not just celebrated but deeply embedded in the nation’s fabric.
Cultural Fluidity – A Hallmark of Modern Canada
Canada’s multicultural evolution highlights a shift toward cultural fluidity—where individuals embrace layered identities with ease. The key findings are as follows:
83% of Canadians feel comfortable expressing their cultural roots while identifying as Canadian.
Younger generations and first-generation Canadians play a pivotal role in shaping this new multicultural narrative.
54% of Gen Z (18–27 years old) and 67% of first-generation Canadians are predominantly non-White, compared to 78% of Boomers.
These findings reflect a new cultural standard, where Canadian identity is no longer homogenous but a rich tapestry of global influences.
Generational Shifts Driving Diversity
The study highlights generational differences in how Canadians view and engage with cultural diversity:
| Generations | Predominant Ethnicity | Cultural Engagement |
| Gen Z (18–27 years old) | Predominantly non-White | 86% consume global content, embracing cross-cultural norms. |
| First-Generation Canadians | Predominantly non-White | 51% live in multilingual households. |
| Third+ Generations | Predominantly White | 97% speak only English/French at home. |
Second-generation Canadians, in particular, act as vital connectors between communities, with 46% involved in cross-cultural relationships.
Multiculturalism as Core to Canadian Identity
The research highlights how diversity now defines Canada’s mainstream, transcending the boundaries of ethnicity and geography. Key patterns of cultural engagement in Canada reveal the evolving dynamics of identity and integration. Multilingualism remains a strong feature among newcomers, with many households maintaining their native languages alongside English or French. However, third-generation Canadians predominantly use only English or French at home, reflecting a gradual linguistic shift over generations.
Meanwhile, younger Canadians are actively engaging with international content, signaling deeper global connectivity and cultural integration. Grace Tong, Vice President at Ipsos Canada, highlighted that multiculturalism has transcended its traditional boundaries and is now an intrinsic aspect of Canada’s mainstream identity.
Canada’s Future is Multicultural
As the demographic makeup of Canada shifts, so does its cultural heartbeat. This study reveals that diversity is not just an asset but a defining feature of the Canadian experience.
By 2024 and beyond, Canada’s identity will continue to evolve, shaped by its rich cultural mosaic. The younger generation and first-generation Canadians are setting the tone for an inclusive, multicultural future where being “Canadian” means embracing diversity. This is the Canada of today—and tomorrow—a nation redefined by its people
