Why multicultural education in Canada?
Kehoe (1997) states, “A frequently asked question is, Why should we include multicultural and anti-racist education in our schools? The broad answer to the question is that we live in a democracy, and a democracy is best served by acceptance of and respect for the rights of the minorities that live in that democracy.” Jack Kehoe also indicates that multiculturalism is a “difficult issue.” I agree, that not all cultural practices should be excepted, furthermore, “cultural practices that deny freedom or equality or opportunity” should not be accepted. In order to fully understand the necessity of multicultural education in Canada I think one must understand the everyday practices within Canadian society. Peggy McIntosh (1998), explains “White “privilege.” I will interpret white privilege as I see it in Canada. Canadians are raised in a culture that allows unnoticed privilege. Whites just as men are raised with invisible power and unconscious oppressiveness. McIntosh gives examples of the
