Hi Agata. You broach a number of topics but I'll add my opinion in on them, although some will be similar to earlier posters.
I've read a few articles and some official stuff(like government websites or sth) about it and it made me think. Is this real side of Canada? Is multiculturalism such an important part of life?
Yes and no. A lot depends on where you live and your demographic. Growing up in rural Alberta, multiculturalism was something that was always vague to those who I lived around, and it generated resentment because of the funds it required (or seemed to) from the government coffers. When you move into the larger centers, there is more diversity but in the West, there still seemed to be a sense that the government programs were largely unnecessary, as those who wanted to preserve aspects of their culture would find ways to do so without governmental assistance.
I'd like to ask how you feel about it
Because to me it looks like Canada is only kind of packaging for a different nationalities that live in this area. Do you really feel that there's a mix of cultures that works and creates something special, some unique Canadian culture? Do you feel Canadian?
Well, there are definitely "cultural enclaves" or pockets of the country that are relatively homogeneous.If you look at the populace of Alberta, aside from the Native population, it is largely Northern European, with heavy German, Scandanavian and Slavic populations, as well as the ever present British influence. This is reflective of where the Canadian and British governments advertised to attract immigrants, back decades: they concentrated on Northern Europe because they felt immigrants from this region would be best able to meet the challenges of the climate. Now a culture has evolved, that uses a common language (English) and laws, and focuses on how one can meet the challenges of people everywhere (food, clothing, etc) in a common setting. As an Albertan, who has spent a lot of time in the US, I find the two countries almost indistinguishable until you get into the specifics of the political process.
What about Quebec? Do Quebecois sill want to gain autonomy?
I really can't comment much on Quebec. I have never been there (never had a reason or real desire to go there) and am not close to anyone from there, so my information comes mainly from the media or internet forums such as this one. And, to be honest, after all the media hype and attention,I really don't care much about the wants of the Quebecois.
And one more thing: immigration. I've done some research about it and the procedures are quite strict - emigration to Canada is possible only if you have something to offer for the country. Is it too strict in your opinion or maybe suitable to reality and needs? I'm sorry if that sounds dumb, I've never been to Canada(though Vancouver is on my 'Places to Visit Before Death' list
)so it's hard to imagine
I decided to ask here because I want to hear what ordinary citizen has to say
Thank you in advance for any opinions Greetings, Agata
Immigration is always a touchy subject. There are always xenophobes who don't want any, but the reality is we are a nation built on the backs of various generations of immigrants, and we continue to need those new people coming into the country, to satisfy manpower and other needs. I think our overall policy needs fine tuning more than an actual overhaul, especially when dealing with refugees.