Stereotyping is not something Canada is immune to. Typical assumptions of people unfamiliar with Canada are that we are obsessed with hockey, live in igloos, and that our diet primarily consists of maple syrup. There is some truth to these statements. Hockey is a large part of communities and many people grow up playing. The merciless winters provide an abundance of natural ice for skating while also feeding into the “living in igloos” assumption. Igloos were part of our history and are still used in some communities, but modern heating and building has allowed us to evolve past that resulting in a very low population of people actually living in an igloo. As you may remember from our geography conversation, central Canada produces a majority of the resources supporting our economy, and Quebec is by far the leader in maple syrup production. With over 10 847 maple farms, it is fair to assume we love our maple syrup. 

Canada 150: 6 Canadian stereotypes that happen to be true

While there is a basis for these stereotypes, the reality is that being Canadian is so much more. Canada is known for valuing kindness, respect, respect, and inclusion. We take pride in creating welcoming communities of all ages and ethnicities. Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world resulting in diversity being a distinct feature of Canada. The variety of ethnic backgrounds, religions, and cultures has created an amalgamation of identity. From indigenous communities with deep connections to the land to immigrant families who share their cultural practices with others, Canadian identity is constantly growing and changing. There is no single definition of being “Canadian”. To be Canadian is to sit in diversity and a mixture of perspectives and values, and that is what defines my home.