Ethnic and civic self-identity in Canada: analyses of 1974 and 1991 national surveys

• Published in: Canadian ethnic studies Vol. 27; no. 2; pp. 1 - 15
• Main Authors: Kalin, Rudolf, Berry, J W
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Calgary University of Calgary, Research centre for Canadian Ethnic Studies 01.01.1995; Canadian Ethnic Studies Journal
• Subjects: Attachment; Attitudes; Canada; Canadians; Community Relations; Cultural Background; Cultural heritage; Cultural identity; Cultural Pluralism; Ethnic Groups; Ethnic Identity; Ethnicity; French language; Language culture relationship; Multiculturalism & pluralism; National Identity; National Surveys; Nationalism; Polls & surveys; Psychological Studies; Quebec; Racial Identification; Romance Languages; Self Actualization; Self concept; State Surveys; Statistics; Ukrainian; Canada; Quebec Canada
• ISSN: 0008-3496; 1913-8253

Two national surveys were conducted in 1974 (N=1849) and 1991 (N=3325) examining ethnic and multicultural attitudes. Comparable measures of ethnic and civic identity were used in the two surveys, and a strength of identity question was added in 1991. Continuity and change in identity between the two surveys were identified, and the characteristics of those making different identity choices were examined. Based on the results of the surveys, the following conclusions were reached. (1) The large majority of Canadians outside Quebec, and including those of British and Other Ethnic origin. identify as "Canadian." (2) In Quebec, the most frequent current identity choice is "Provincial" (Quebecois) which represents a change from 1974 when it was "French - Canadian." (3) "Ethnic" identity is the least frequent choice in all regions except Ontario, and among those of Other Ethnic origin, where it is second after "Canadian." (4) Civic identity is more important than ethnic identity. (5) There has been a decline in the choice of "Ethnic" identity (including British, French and Other Ethnic) between 1974 and 1991. (6) Identifying as "Canadian" does not diminish the acceptance of multiculturalism, and maintaining a heritage identity is compatible with having at the same time a strong "Canadian" identity and attachment to Canada.