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

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

However, his conservative cultural views, including critiques of multiculturalism and support for restrictive immigration policies, have drawn criticism from others in the industry who value diversity and global engagement. —Tim Bajarin, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025

Lee related her upbringing in both Texas and Southern California as a lesson in multiculturalism. —Shomik Mukherjee, Mercury News, 21 May 2025

The teenage Miller invited Horowitz to speak at Santa Monica High School in the early aughts, entranced by his bromides against multiculturalism. —Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for multiculturalism

• biculturalism