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

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 • Feb. 11, 2026

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 • Feb. 2, 2026

Series creator James Gunn takes aim at that paradigm through “Superman” and its adamant championing of immigrants, multiculturalism and unity.

From Salon • Aug. 21, 2025

She does miss the multiculturalism of Southern California — “My son will say, ‘Let’s get pho!’ and I have to remind him we’re not in Orange County anymore,” she said with a laugh.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 29, 2025

This chapter will look at the history of multiculturalism and diversity education, the field of ethnomusicology, and strategies for teaching using multicultural music aesthetics.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

Related Words

• pluralism