The Western world is becoming increasingly ethnically diverse. The predominantly Caucasian countries of Canada and the United States of America are reaching their all time high numbers for individuals born outside of the two countries (Statistics Canada, 2001, para.5). In Canada alone, there are 5.4 million individuals or 18.4% of the entire population who were born outside of the country (Statistics Canada, para. 5). Canada is second next to Australia in the world, for the highest number of new immigrants residing in the country. Individuals from Chinese, African, and South Asian decent form the three highest ethnic minority groups living within Canada (Statistics Canada, para.19). New immigrants have different ways of living, and thus they bring new cultures to the Western world. In order to accommodate these minority groups, individuals living in Canada must be willing to accept, understand, and embrace different cultures.

      The Nursing profession is one based on providing health care for every individual regardless of their race, culture, religion, and/or spoken language. Every individual has the right to achieve their highest potential for healthy living; therefore, it is imperative that nursing services are offered in a culturally sensitive manner in order to accommodate the diverse Canadian population. This website is dedicated towards emphasizing the importance of the concept of multiculturalism within the health care system. Multiculturalism ensures that individuals receive appropriate and equal health care; therefore, it eliminates oppression faced by new immigrants and unites the Canadian population as a whole.

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