Multicultural Values are rooted in the provincial motto, “From Many Peoples Strength”, and the treaty relationships that define our province. All MCoS work is guided by these values, which are expressed as:
We recognize the multicultural diversity of the people of Saskatchewan. We believe in the strength of supporting cultural continuity and pride in one’s cultural ancestries. We celebrate the sharing between cultures because culture is a two way street.
We recognize the negative impact of racism and discrimination. We promote the importance of all people in overcoming these issues to achieve equitable outcomes for all Saskatchewan residents.
Multiculturalism is central to the cultural, economic, social, and political life of Saskatchewan.
We actively support and encourage efforts to bring communities together in ways that will build relationships based on understanding and respect to foster capacity for problem solving and planning.
We support welcoming and inclusive communities that create a sense of home and belonging. We recognize the creativity and innovation that arise from bringing different cultural perspectives together and cultivating the unique contributions of all.
The multicultural streams flow from the multicultural values. These streams represent the main areas of work in multiculturalism and are the focus of MCoS programs and support.
Empowers ethnocultural organizations, individuals and communities to retain, maintain and evolve distinctive cultural practices and traditions in the Canadian context. MCoS supports members and schools to share deeply.
Includes education and festivals that showcase differences and similarities, most often through performance, cuisine and other arts. It includes an awareness that groups that welcome many perspectives, especially from different cultural world views, lead to greater creativity and innovation. Funding and sponsorship opportunities encourages meaningful exchange and connection.
This work looks at issues of power and privilege and how they impact individual and systemic discrimination; it usually includes active dialogue to build equity and justice in our institutions and communities. MCoS coordinates an annual March 21st campaign, facilitates Arrêt/Stop Racism Youth Leadership Workshops and invests in member and school activities that recognize and reject racism and discrimination.
Entails different cultural groups coming together over time to build bridges i.e. exchanges, pen-pals, cooperative work, creating safe spaces, dialogue, creative projects, etc. BRIDGES (Building Relationships through Intercultural Dialogue and Education in Saskatchewan) uses a model by which local members take the lead to bring Indigenous, newcomer and other community members together.
In contrast to assimilation, is achieved when all members of a community are reflected, are seen and see themselves as belonging for all aspects of their identities, are valued for their contributions, and are able to appropriately access services. The WIC Toolkit provides excellent resources, and INVOLVE offers training for new volunteer leaders and organizations.
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Regina, SK. S4R 3C1
MCoS’ work and support reaches lands covered by Treaties 2, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 10 traditional lands of the Nehiyaw/Nehithaw/Nehinaw/Cree, Nahkawe/Saulteaux, Dakota, Lakota, Nakota, and Dene peoples and Homeland of the Métis/Michif.
