multiculturalism

   A multicultural society is one in which all ethnic groups feel accepted and included. Multiculturalism is an ideology advocating that society should comprise, or at least allow and include, distinct cultural groups of equal status. It began as an official policy in English-speaking countries in the 1970s and was quickly adopted as official policy by most member states in the European Union. However, it is currently an extremely divisive issue in the UK and in several other Western democracies. Supporters often portray it as a self-evident entitlement of cultural groups, as a form of civil rights grounded in equality of cultures. They embrace diversity as a positive force, encouraging and enabling different cultures to learn about each other’s art, literature and philosophy, and influence each other’s cuisine, fashion and music. Opponents tend to see it as an unwanted vision that has been imposed on them by a liberal elite which has not sought their consent. They fear it will lead to cultural ghettos and undermine a sense of national identity and unity. In particular, they dislike the way that in practice it means the creation of more single-faith schools and an undue emphasis upon minority rights.

   Labour has been sympathetic to multiculturalism, placing much emphasis on the rights of minorities to preserve and celebrate their culture whilst encouraging their participation as citizens – that is, integrating without assimilating. However, the policy has come into question. The existence of poor social conditions and racism have – particularly in some highly polarised towns and cities in the north of England where there is an absence of shared values – become barriers to the integration of minorities, so that multiculturalism has not functioned as it is supposed to do. In the light of events such as the London bombings, some Labour politicians have seen a need to stress social cohesion and inclusion, rather than diversity.

   See also: Islamophobia, multiracial society, Muslim community