multiculturalism

American  

[muhl-tee-kuhl-cher-uh-liz-uhm, muhl-tahy-] / ˌmʌl tiˈkʌl tʃər əˌlɪz əm, ˌmʌl taɪ- /

noun

1. the state or condition of being multicultural.

2. the preservation of different cultures or cultural identities within a unified society, as a state or nation.

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multiculturalism Cultural  

1. The view that the various cultures in a society merit equal respect and scholarly interest. It became a significant force in American society in the 1970s and 1980s as African-Americans, Latinos, and other ethnic groups explored their own history.

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Etymology

Origin of multiculturalism

First recorded in 1960–65; multicultural + -ism

Example Sentences

A leading champion of multiculturalism has died at 84.

From The Wall Street Journal

The events show how difficult it is for Australia, which has a reputation for multiculturalism, to find the right balance between fighting antisemitism and allowing for criticism of Israel and democratic protest.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bolzano and neighbouring province Trento were granted the status of autonomous areas in 1972, and in South Tyrol multiculturalism is protected by law.

From Barron's

The spokesperson added: "Cunningham has made a habit of talking London down, repeatedly portraying our city as broken while opposing the multiculturalism that makes it the best city in the world."

From BBC

Canada provides an instructional model for democratic multiculturalism beyond mythologized heritage.

From Salon

Related Words

• pluralism