A recent survey reveals rising concern among Canadians regarding immigration, with one-quarter believing newcomers should abandon their customs. This sentiment is strongest among older Canadians, particularly in Quebec, and highlights a growing desire for cultural assimilation.

Growing Skepticism Over Immigration in Canada

A significant portion of Canadians now feel that immigrants should adopt local customs, according to a new survey by Leger for the Association for Canadian Studies (ACS). This finding comes amid increasing dissatisfaction with Canada’s immigration policies, an issue that has gained attention since the COVID-19 pandemic.

One in four Canadians believe immigrants should relinquish their customs and traditions, with the sentiment especially prevalent among older adults. Notably, 33% of Canadians over 55 share this view, while younger Canadians are less likely to agree. In Quebec, where cultural and linguistic preservation is highly valued, this view is even more pronounced, with about one-third of respondents expressing similar sentiments.

Economic Concerns and Cultural Tensions

The head of the ACS, Jack Jedwab, commented on the survey results, noting that while economic concerns are often cited in discussions about immigration, there are underlying worries about how newcomers integrate into Canadian society. “Canadians often mention economic factors, but a deeper concern exists about integration and potential inter-group tensions,” Jedwab said in an interview.

Interestingly, while 76% of Canadians believe in the importance of preserving traditions, many feel differently when it comes to immigrants maintaining their cultural practices. Younger Canadians between the ages of 18 and 34 are generally more open to cultural diversity, with only 65% supporting the transmission of customs across generations, compared to older demographics.

Jedwab described the situation as “ironic,” noting that Canada’s diverse population—nearly half of whom are immigrants or their descendants—supports cultural preservation but expresses discomfort with visible aspects of religious or cultural practices among immigrants. He attributed this attitude, in part, to unease surrounding specific cultural or religious expressions.

A Call for Assimilation in Religious Symbols

A third of Canadians believe that religious minorities would better integrate if they avoided displaying overtly religious symbols. This view is most prevalent among older Canadians, with nearly 39% of those over 55 endorsing this belief. Differences also exist across gender, with 35% of men and 29% of women supporting this view. By contrast, only 22% of Canadians aged 18 to 34 feel that religious symbols impede integration.

The issue of religious expression has been contentious in Canada, especially in Quebec, where debates about religious symbols have led to legislation that limits the wearing of such symbols by public sector employees. While proponents argue these laws promote secularism, critics view them as discriminatory.

Younger Canadians Lean Towards Cultural Acceptance

Younger generations are less likely to demand cultural assimilation from immigrants. Instead, many in this demographic believe that diversity enriches Canada’s cultural landscape and that allowing immigrants to maintain their customs is fundamental to building an inclusive society.

Jedwab highlighted this shift in perspective, suggesting that younger Canadians view cultural diversity as beneficial. However, he cautioned that the debate around integration could intensify if concerns about housing, healthcare, and employment worsen, potentially influencing attitudes toward immigration.

A Divided Perspective on Immigration

As Canada’s population continues to diversify, attitudes towards immigration and cultural assimilation reveal generational divides. Older Canadians, more wary of cultural preservation, increasingly call for newcomers to adopt Canadian customs. Conversely, younger Canadians, who view cultural diversity as an asset, are more inclined to support immigrants retaining their customs and religious practices.

Canada faces the challenge of balancing these perspectives. Jedwab and others believe that fostering mutual respect and understanding will be essential in ensuring that Canada remains a welcoming place for all, regardless of origin or beliefs.