Citizenship and Diversity

Belonging is that feeling of deep connection an individual can have for their neighbourhood, their community, and ultimately for the society in which they reside. This sense of belonging is essential to the well-being of an individual and to the development of communities. As we observe increased polarization and the effects of divisive forces in Canada, the question before us is: how do we foster this sense of belonging, of deep attachment and care for others, within our diverse society?

The Office of Public Affairs works in partnership with a range of organizations, universities, and government agencies to foster a discourse about migration, citizenship, and diversity. Featured below is information about a number of recent projects and events.

Projects

Each section below highlights aspects of a number of projects advanced by the Office of Public Affairs, often in partnership with other organizations.

Belonging Project

Partnership with social actors, civil society organizations, universities, and government agencies (2025 - Present)

Virtual Spaces and Democratic Processes

Submission to the Canadian Commission on Democratic Expression (2020)

Migration and Religion Seminar Series

Partnership with Global Migration Lab, Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, and the Multi-Faith Centre, University of Toronto (2019-2020)

Parliamentary Study on Online Hate

Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2019)

Documenting the Iranian Bahá'í Refugee Movement to Canada (1981-1989)

Partnership with Carleton University (2014-2015)

Events

Each section below includes links to news articles about recent events attended by the Office of Public Affairs.

DemocracyXChange

Partnership with Ryerson Leadership Lab and Open Democracy Project (2019-2020)

6 Degrees

Institute for Canadian Citizenship (2017)

News Article: "6 Degrees Citizen Space builds bridges, breaks down walls”