E10 EF7 Quick essay

No country is perfect, but Canada definitely has strengths that not all countries have when it comes to tolerance of the many differences that exist among its citizens.  In general, Canada is a very tolerant country.  For the most part, Canadians can live their own lives without interference from others who may be different from them.  The three most important aspects of this are a multicultural social fabric, tolerant legal system, and protection to hold your own beliefs and speak your mind.

Canada’s national program of multiculturalism is based on tolerance.  Since the 1970s, Canadians have been taught to respect differences among others who may not share their lifestyles, whether immigrant or native-born.  For example, people are allowed to dress in whatever traditional clothing they wish.  Also, people can speak their own languages freely, and often be served in those languages in banks, etc.  Finally, people can worship how they wish.  There is also tension in Canada about these differences, but the overarching attitude is one of open-mindedness.

Next, the court system in Canada is one of the most tolerant in the world.  For example, Canadian courts have loosened drug laws in the past number of years.  Also, unlike the US, Canada does not have punitive sentencing based on a “three strike” law.  Also, unlike many countries, Canada does not have capital punishment in any situation. ADD

Most importantly, Canadians are tolerant of each others’ opinions and protect each others’ rights to express opinions that may not be our own.  For example, any person in Canada can question the government without fear of persecution; likewise, we can question religious dogma without fear of punishment. ADD

Although not at all a perfect country, Canada does have a very tolerant attitude toward difference.  Canada is a “live and let live” country where mostly you are free to live, act, and think as you wish, within the confines of the law, without fear of serious punishment from people who may disagree with you.  Allowing you to live, act, and think as you wish does not harm me, and may enrich me.