Cultural Integration
Author: Tolossa T.
Level: 6
Instructor: Tayaba S.
Photo Credit: Jakub Krechowicz / 123RF Stock Photo
Article ID: 1657 [Self-Improvement- Spring 2020]
Cultural integration is the increasing adaptation of the different cultures found throughout the world. It could be argued that this leads to a reduction of the cultural differences and a dilution of local cultures. But, for me the reality is; when one person moves to a new environment he or she has to be ready to accept and respect the values and beliefs of that society. For instance, a place where I grew up smoking and kissing your own partner in public is shame.
Back home, I heard about lesbian and gay, but I didn’t see girls or boys kissing each other. The first time I saw two girls kissing each other on the street was in downtown I was shocked. I imagined what I would do if it happened at where I come from. I convinced myself not to react in weird way. However I’m ready to learn more and manage the differences, for the benefit Canadian community and new immigrants. Also, integration is not about practicing others culture, rather it is about respecting and recognizing their values and believes. With all our differences I do appreciate the freedom that the new immigrant has been given to exercise their own culture.
I’m one of the beneficiaries, August 2019 my community gathered together to celebrate thanksgiving same way we used to do it at back home. Mothers, fathers, girls, boys and kids were beautified with their cultural clothes and beads. Elders gave blessings, thanked lord for all lasting achievements, health and prayed for the future.
In Conclusion, every culture has its own beauty. We should appreciate it and try to integrate at the same time keeping our own identity and cultural values.