Diversity Guide
Race, Identity and Indigenous Peoples
Canada is home to people from a wide range of ethnic, cultural, linguistic and religious backgrounds. More than one in four Canadians were born outside the country, making it one of the world's most diverse societies.
Indigenous peoples, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, have lived on these lands for thousands of years and remain an important part of Canada's history, culture and contemporary identity. However, Indigenous communities continue to experience inequalities linked to the legacy of colonialism, residential schools and historic discrimination.
Toronto and Vancouver are shaped by large immigrant communities and are home to significant South Asian, Chinese, Black, Filipino, Middle Eastern, Indigenous and other diverse populations.
While Canada is often viewed as an inclusive society, racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of discrimination continue to be reported. Freedom of religion is protected under Canadian law, and Canada is home to a wide range of faith communities.