Being Canadian from a Multicultural Perspective

You may be worried about adjusting to your new community and losing your family traditions. It’s important to know that just because you’re adapting to a new culture, it doesn’t mean you need to let go of your customs. Balancing both cultures will be essential to maintaining your identity while embracing a new culture.

Living in a new country can feel strange and confusing, so what do you do to keep your roots and preserve your heritage?

Keep Constant Communication with Family & Friends: Once you start to gain familiarity and comfort with your new home, it’s easy to lose touch with people you use to know. It is vital to keep in touch with friends and family members to stay connected to your old home and heritage. Whether it’s to call your mom for your favorite family recipe or your friends to reminisce on memories, keeping in touch with your friends and family can help you preserve your culture.

Join Local Clubs & Associations Tied to Your Culture: Another great way to preserve your heritage in a new country is by joining associations or clubs that affiliate with your lifestyle and community. These types of organizations, also known as social clubs, are gatherings where you can practice the traditions of your culture. It is also the perfect opportunity to meet new people who have also moved far from their former homes.

There may also be an opportunity to volunteer for organizations or groups that work with people from your cultural community. Some may focus on recent immigrants or work with partner organizations in your home country. This will help you create strong ties to your heritage while giving back to the community.

Maintain Cultural Tradition by Sharing It with Others: We all have traditions that we grew up with, whether they are daily habits, celebrations, or food. A perfect way to preserve your traditions is to continue practicing them in your new home. There is nothing better than sharing the traditions you love with friends or colleagues in your new home. You can do this by bringing homemade treats to your office or hosting traditional events with new friends.