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

Founded by a family whose journey spans Taiwan, Mozambique and New York, Alta is a celebration of global resilience and multiculturalism. —Peter Su, Rolling Stone, 22 Jan. 2025

Canada has long prided itself on its careful and successful integration of newcomers, with Trudeau’s father Pierre making Canada the first country to introduce official multiculturalism. —Stephen Maher, TIME, 7 Jan. 2025

It is frequently cited as a failure of multiculturalism and the impact of mass immigration. —Adam Shaw, Fox News, 6 Jan. 2025

The young chef is also incorporating global flavors into his creations that feel at home with the multiculturalism of H-Town. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 30 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above