multiculturalism

noun

mul·​ti·​cul·​tur·​al·​ism ˌməl-tē-ˈkəlch-rə-ˌli-zəm 

-ˌtī-,

-ˈkəl-chə-

: cultural pluralism or diversity (as within a society, an organization, or an educational institution) : a multicultural social state or a doctrine or policy that promotes or advocates such a state

With racial and ethnic diversity increasing across the nation as a result of increased immigration, educational leaders were keen to embrace multiculturalism.

—Diane Ravitch

Successful multiculturalism builds the bonds of community that lead to interracial, interethnic friendships.

—Diane Ravitch

Multiculturalism is a term that has come to serve as shorthand for a host of different and not necessarily related cultural and educational issues. Arguments relating to gender studies, ethnic and racial studies, affirmative action, freedom of speech on campus, compromise and corruption among educational administrators have all been aired under the title, multiculturalism.

—A. E. Barnes

multiculturalist

ˌməl-tē-ˈkəlch-rə-list

-ˌtī-

-ˈkəl-chə-

adjective

multiculturalist ideas/theories/policies

multiculturalist noun

plural multiculturalists

… in which traditionalists in favor of centering the curriculum on classic works of literature faced off against multiculturalists who wanted to include more works by women and members of minorities.

—Rachel Donadio

Examples of multiculturalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the past several decades, Canada has engaged in a collective nation-building project to redefine its national identity around ideas of tolerance and multiculturalism. —Zack Beauchamp, Vox, 2 July 2025

In recent years, the Met Gala has hosted epic fashion moments from the likes of Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, Jared Leto and Bad Bunny with head-turning themes that explore multiculturalism, nature and fashion history. —Edward Segarra, USA Today, 27 June 2025

She’s chosen London as her home, personally and professionally for its cosmopolitan nature and multiculturalism. —Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 5 June 2025

While the future of multiculturalism may seem precarious, most 20- and 30-somethings came of age in a world when students were encouraged to affirm their diverse identities. —Andrew Silow-Carroll, Sun Sentinel, 9 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for multiculturalism

• biculturalism