Never has the world experienced greater movement of peoples from one country to another, from one continent to another. These seismic shifts in population have brought huge challenges for all societies, particularly in the developed world. Do changes in population present the possibility of a new model for the structures of society? Does the Canadian model, which emphasizes values, parliamentary democracy, and the rule of law, make a fitting model for countries who still rejoice in ethnic purity? Can belonging encompass difference and distrust, while maintaining standards of human rights, particularly freedom of expression and assembly and the right of women? These timely and controversial subjects are at the very essence of Adrienne Clarksons 2014 Massey Lectures, Belonging The Paradox of Citizenship.
