U4L4 Visions of National Identity

As the 20th century  unfolded, and Canada welcomed more and more immigrants
from more and more regions of the world, the country changed and early visions
expanded to include much more diverse ideas about Canadian society.

1867 - Thomas D'Arcy McGee

Irish Nationalist, Catholic spokesman, journalist and Father of Confederation stated the following:
So long as we respect in Canada the rights of minorities, told either by tongue or creed, we are safe.  For so long it will be possible for us to be united.  But when we cease to respect these rights, we will be in the full tide towards that madness which the ancients considered the gods sent to those whom they wished to destroy.
He is to date, the only Canadian victim of political assassination at the federal level. 

A pluralistic society reflects an inclusive approach that is characterized by respect for diversity.  It assumes that diversity is beneficial and that groups with various backgrounds can enjoy autonomy. 

As Canadians reassess their national identity, some view Canada as a country of many nations.  In 1996 the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples reported that Canada is a nation of nations.  It said that Aboriginal governments are one of three orders of government in Canada - federal, provincial/territorial and Aboriginal.
In the 2007 provincial election, the Action Democratique due Quebec became the province's official opposition party.  The ADQ is a nationalist party that supports greater autonomy for Quebec, but it stops short of advocating outright sovereignty.