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

Canadian multiculturalism is a sacred cow – Mr. Poilievre’s wife, Anaida Poilievre, was born in Venezuela – and marks key electoral battlegrounds. —Sara Miller Llana, Christian Science Monitor, 25 Apr. 2025

There is no doubt that Hartford’s multiculturalism is a wonderful asset. —Nikos Mohammadi, Hartford Courant, 6 Apr. 2025

Canada is home to vibrant multiculturalism, diverse natural landscapes, rich history, friendly people, and extraordinary architecture spanning the entire country. —Miriam Porter, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025

But multiculturalism alone doesn’t jumpstart growth, attract businesses, or advance infrastructure development. —Nikos Mohammadi, Hartford Courant, 6 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for multiculturalism

• biculturalism