In 1974, Saskatchewan was the first province to enact multiculturalism legislation, recognizing the right of every community to retain its identity, language and traditional arts and sciences for the mutual benefit of citizens. In 1997, the Act was revised and a section of the Act states the policy should preserve, strengthen and promote Aboriginal cultures and acknowledge their historic and current contribution to development of Saskatchewan. More information is available on The Saskatchewan Multiculturalism Act. Responsibility for the Act resides with the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport.
The Act states broadly the provincial multiculturalism policy and provides the Minister power to carry out the purposes of the Act. The Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS) was founded on November 22, 1975 and has been instrumental in the development and promotion of these multicultural values, including the Saskatchewan motto From Many Peoples Strength. Saskatchewan Multicultural Week is celebrated each November the week that includes November 22nd.
Over the years, we have executed provincial campaigns all through November that celebrate Saskatchewan Multicultural Week. We have asked Saskatchewan to share their multicultural superheroes, we highlighted that multiculturalism fosters strength in diversity. In 2014, we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Multicultural Act with a focus on the past, present and future of multiculturalism in Saskatchewan. For the 2013 Saskatchewan Multicultural Week, we outlined some ways multiculturalism has enriched the cultural, economic, social, and political life of Saskatchewan, as these are the areas of focus in our mission statement.
MCoS has been instrumental in the development and promotion of multicultural values (Respect for diversity, Recognition and rejection of racism, Intercultural Connections, and Integration) as well as the provincial motto: From Many Peoples Strength, or MULTIS E GENTIBUS VIRES.
When we practice these we are creating the foundation for relationships, schools, workplaces, and communities that reflect all of us. Planning and problem-solving at many levels can be effective and supported. These values are equal in the priority placed on them by the Council.
Each year, MCoS provides a resource called Building Welcoming Communities (previously called Ways to Welcome) to all schools in Saskatchewan, our members and others. Last year we launched the superhero theme and highlighted TRC Calls to Action. The 2015 focus was on a celebration of the past, consideration of successes and challenges in the present, and planning for the future.
In 2014, we shared ideas on how you can put the multicultural values and motto into practice during Saskatchewan Multicultural Week and every day. Check out our Building Welcoming Communities page with resources from previous years.
November 18-26, 2023
Help us celebrate Saskatchewan Multicultural Week – from November 18-26, Together, let’s Celebrate Community, Honour Diversity, Act For Equity.
– Saskatchewan Multicultural Leadership Award
– Multicultural Youth Leadership Award
Nominations are OPEN for 2023!
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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.
