Multiculturalism in British Columbia

The provincial government and community organizations work together in British Columbia to promote multiculturalism and actively help immigrants settle into a new life here.

Multiculturalism has always played a major role in British Columbia, from the diversity of our Aboriginal communities, which date back centuries, right through to today.

British Columbia is made up of many different cultures from over 180 countries throughout the world. This includes over 200,000 Aboriginal peoples who have their own languages and cultures.

In 2006, many of the immigrants coming to B.C. from Asia were from Mainland China, India, Hong Kong and the Philippines. Traditionally, most immigrants settle in Metro Vancouver. As a result, communities in and around Metro Vancouver have the most diverse populations in the province and in the country. For example, more than half of the people living in Richmond and Burnaby (suburbs in Metro Vancouver) were born outside Canada.

Multiculturalism is a way of life in British Columbia. We celebrate cultural and ethnic traditions from around the world, including Chinese New Year, Diwali, Vaisakhi, Hanukah, Robbie Burns Day, St. Patrick's Day and many, many others.

Each year, the Government of British Columbia designates the third week of February as Multiculturalism Week. Communities across British Columbia celebrate and share the cultures and traditions of immigrants who have moved here from around the world.

To learn more about the multicultural make-up of the community you are interested in moving to in British Columbia, including statistics and maps of immigrants in B.C., have a look at the Profile of Immigrants (PDF) page or visit the Immigration and Diversity Profiles section of this site.

The provincial government and many organizations in British Columbia promote multiculturalism and actively help immigrants settle into a new life here.

Back to Top