Canadians have historically been open and accepting of immigrants from all walks of life. Photo: Courtesy
By The Respondent reporter
In a Montreal suburb, a significant viral cultural debate unfolded recently when Muslim parents called for the removal of pork from all school canteen menus. However, the mayor of Dorval, a suburb of Montreal, took a strong stand in defense of Canadian customs and values.
In a note sent to parents, the mayor articulated his reasoning, emphasizing the importance of integration, mutual respect, and the preservation of Canadian identity.
The message was clear: newcomers to Canada, including Muslims, are warmly welcomed but must adapt to the customs, traditions, and lifestyle of their new home. "Muslims must understand that they have chosen to immigrate to Canada and Quebec, and with that choice comes the responsibility to integrate," the note began.
The mayor highlighted that this integration involves more than just physical presence; it requires a shift in lifestyle, where the onus is on the immigrant to adjust, not on Canadians to relinquish their long-held traditions.
"Canadians have historically been open and accepting of immigrants from all walks of life, and this generosity does not stem from a place of racism or xenophobia. It is a core value of our nation. However, just as we welcome newcomers, we also have the right to maintain our own identity and culture."
Furthermore, the note pointed out that while Canada remains a land of opportunity for many, it is not just the government or local authorities that extend this welcome, but the Canadian people as a whole.
"Canadians, deeply rooted in their Judeo-Christian heritage, have fostered a culture of openness. But this openness does not imply the abandonment of our customs. Christmas trees, churches, and religious festivals are part of our public life, and religion in Canada must remain a personal, not a public, affair."
The mayor also drew attention to the global context, reminding those concerned that Canada is a unique place of diversity and opportunity and that many other countries do not offer the same freedoms or acceptance. "For those who disagree with our secular values or feel uncomfortable living in Canada, there are over 50 predominantly Muslim countries in the world.
These countries are available to welcome those who wish to live under Sharia law. But if you chose Canada, it is likely because you believed life would be better here. If that’s the case, ask yourself why this is so—and understand that our customs, including 'a canteen with pork,' are part of the answer."
In Western societies like Canada, religious tolerance is a cornerstone of public life. The ability to freely practice one's faith, without fear of persecution or discrimination, is a fundamental right. However, this tolerance also comes with the expectation that no single religion should dominate the public sphere or impose its customs on others.
The balance between respecting individual religious beliefs and upholding shared cultural values is delicate but essential. This commitment to pluralism allows people of all faiths to coexist peacefully while contributing to the broader societal fabric, ensuring that integration does not mean the erasure of any particular heritage but rather the celebration of many.
In closing, the mayor's note stood firm: Canada’s identity, formed through generations of diverse immigration, remains intact. The values of openness and respect are extended to all, but so too is the expectation that those who come here will respect and adapt to the Canadian way of life.