Looking beyond just food and dance also means valuing the perspectives and skills of diverse communities in shaping the future of our cities and societies

Multiculturalism often finds its expression in celebrations of food, festivals, and traditional dances, which are wonderful ways to experience the richness of different cultures. These visible elements provide a starting point for fostering curiosity and appreciation for diversity.

However, if multiculturalism is confined to the sensory pleasures of cuisine and performances, it risks becoming superficial and performative. True multiculturalism requires a deeper understanding of cultural values, histories, and lived experiences, along with genuine efforts to address systemic inequities that impact marginalized communities.

One of the key challenges of moving beyond surface-level multiculturalism is confronting uncomfortable realities. Racism, discrimination, and structural barriers disproportionately affect ethnic communities, undermining their ability to participate fully in society.

Multiculturalism must go hand in hand with equitable access to opportunities in education, employment, and political representation. For instance, acknowledging the systemic disadvantages faced by certain communities is the first step toward addressing them through inclusive policies and practices.

This creates a foundation of meaningful inclusion, where diverse communities are not just celebrated for their contributions but are empowered to thrive and lead within the broader society. It’s about ensuring that all people, regardless of their background, have equitable access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making spaces. True multiculturalism recognizes the need for systemic change to dismantle barriers that perpetuate inequality and exclusion.

Moving beyond food and dance also means valuing the perspectives and skills of diverse communities in shaping the future of our cities and societies. This could involve consulting cultural groups in the city planning, embedding diverse voices in leadership roles, and creating platforms for intercultural dialogue that go beyond festivals and events. It’s about building partnerships that view diversity as a resource to solve complex challenges, from climate resilience to economic development.

Ultimately, multiculturalism flourishes when we view it as a commitment to shared prosperity and interconnectedness. By valuing the lived experiences, talents, and wisdom of all cultural communities, we can create societies where diversity is woven into the fabric of everyday life — not as an exception, but as the norm. It’s only then that multiculturalism becomes more than a celebration; it becomes a transformative force for unity, justice, and collective progress.