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

Photo courtesy of Jun’s More than 200 nationalities call Dubai home, and its dynamic dining scene reflects its multiculturalism. —Nicola Chilton, AFAR Media, 28 Mar. 2025

Designating English as the official language in no way erodes multiculturalism. —Dp Opinion, The Denver Post, 11 Mar. 2025

Daley, whose mother is from Scotland and whose father is from Jamaica, has explored multiculturalism in his collections. —Rosemary Feitelberg, WWD, 25 Feb. 2025

White Christian nationalists oppose multiculturalism, deny systemic inequities, and view DEI reforms as unnecessary or even unpatriotic. —Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 1 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for multiculturalism

• biculturalism