Duality and Diversity

Duality and Diversity à la canadienne - hop on board! English and French are fundamental to the Canadian identity. Building upon its foundation of linguistic duality Canada has also become a country marked and enriched by the many different origins of its population. Having more than one official language has helped Canadians to develop a particular sensitivity and respect towards each other. This sensitivity and respect has, in turn, been essential in accommodating the many different cultures that immigrants have brought and are continuing to bring to Canada.  Linguistic duality and ethnic diversity: interconnected features of what makes Canada unique Duality and diversity have put Canada on the right track. The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages wants to make sure it stays on course. We are paying great attention to the link between duality and diversity, especially as Canada relies increasingly on immigration for its demographic and economic growth. We believe that it is important that all Canadians benefit from diversity. Consequently, if English and French are the dual tracks upon which the Canadian train is riding, we need to make sure that the conversation continues in English and in French as more passengers board the train. Diversity needs to find expression in both official languages. This section highlights our concerns and outlines some of the major activities we are undertaking to support duality and diversity as core Canadian values. New study on immigration If you want to know more, take a whistle stop tour of past, present and planned activities of the Commissioner to understand her concerns and activities around Duality and Diversity. Immigration and linguistic duality Commitment to minority immigration Future horizons For extensive background reading, you can visit our study corner where you will also find Commissioner Adam's most recent recommendations on immigration [PDF document, 428 Kb]. Commissioner Adam wants to hear from you! She would like to encourage you to communicate your views on immigration, duality and diversity to her and especially to let her know about innovative and successful approaches that you have come across. Change is possible, particularly if we build on the small successes that exist and should inspire others. Use our comments form or e-mail us at immigration@ocol-clo.gc.ca. Note: Some files are only available in Adobe® Portable Document Format (PDF). Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® is available free of charge and can be downloaded from the Adobe® site. Adobe® Acrobat® Reader® If these files are not accessible to you, please contact us or consult our Help page for alternatives. Contact us Consult our help page

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