Tugging the Loose Thread of Canada's Political Tapestry:

Canadian discourses of inclusion and multiculturalism struggle to reckon with the nation's violent history and ongoing injustices, demanding a confrontation with Canada's self-image. While Canada prides itself on being a multicultural forerunner, understanding its ties to settler-colonialism is crucial due to its continued dispossession of Indigenous peoples. The multicultural narrative often overlooks its political complexities, particularly in relation to Quebec's cultural identity, and the interconnectedness between bilingualism and multiculturalism is often ignored. This study examines how culture, nation, secularism, and religion are understood within relevant policies and legal cases, revealing their settler-colonial roots. Analysis shows how interpretations of these documents reinforce social divisions, Indigenous oppression, and a decontextualized Canadian identity. By revealing the settler-colonial roots of Canadian legislation, this research exposes hidden power dynamics and structural injustices within multiculturalism. Correcting this oversight is essential to situate the national narrative within its historical context and to align it with Canada's stated values.