Analysis of Multiculturalism in Australia - Essay Example

IS AUSTRALIA A SUCCESSFUL EXAMPLE OF MULTICULTURALISM IN ACTION? by Student’s Name Code + Course Name Professor University City/State Date Introduction Multiculturalism is a term that refers to the cultural diversity of a society. Hughes (2000) claims that it denotes the policies in place in a certain country or organization that promote the diversity of the cultures of people in that place. With increasing interaction of people from various parts of the world, for instance, due to immigration or the need to do business, multiculturalism is a concept that has gained acceptability in most of the modern world. It is the mark of a modern society in that it displays the rich tapestry of humanity besides the fact that cultural diversity is a vital ingredient in the building of successful nations (Burton 2013). Multiculturalism is a necessity in the modern world in that it defines the interaction among people and nations, promotes peace and unity, hence providing a strong base for a successful nation. In pre-world war two Australia, cultural diversity was non-existent (Graham 2014). Multiculturalism was not encouraged due to the existence of the White Australia Policy that favored the immigration of people from only a select European countries notably Britain while at the same time discouraging immigrants from less developed cultures. However, in the post world war two era, successive Australian governments shunned this policy in favor of immigrants from diverse cultures hence the formation of modern day multicultural Australia. A notable contribution of these efforts was the acceptance of non-white immigrants into Australia, a clear indication of cultural tolerance that was non-existence before. This paper seeks to highlight the fact that Australia is a successful example of multiculturalism in action. Reference will be made to cultural events besides reviewing literature in relation to multiculturalism in Australia. Focus will also be on the strengths and weaknesses of the above assertion. The Success of Multiculturalism in Australia Multiculturalism in Australia has always been an issue of public interest (Fraser 2014). Fraser notes that historically, indigenous people notably the Aborigines inhabited Australia before white settlers began immigrating into the country. This set in several clashes between the local communities and immigrants, for instance the British and the Chinese. Religious differences also set in fueling these conflicts. As such, initial multiculturalism in Australia lacked peace and universal acceptance due to the concerns of the indigenous people. Eisenman (2005) states that a crucial measure of the success of multiculturalism in any society is how the cultures in that particular society coexist. Guile (2005) supports this assertion by stating that the main idea behind multiculturalism is the forging of a society that recognizes and celebrates the diversity of its cultures. In Australia, this statement is very evident as seen by the diverse and multicultural society that exists today (VPA 2003). In the cultural setting, Australia has successfully managed to facilitate the coexistence of the indigenous cultures alongside modern day cultures. Crowder (2013) explains that Australia is a perfect example of a country where Kymlicka’s theory of liberal rights to culture has been applied. He further writes that Kymlicka’s theory advocates for rights of minorities as a tool for peaceful coexistence, as exemplified by Australia in its protection of minority rights. This coexistence greatly shows the extent of success in maintaining a multicultural nation especially when in comparison with various other countries of the world whereby multiculturalism has failed. Various cultural events in Australia, for instance the annual Mardi Gras festival, a gay and lesbian festival is an indication of how this culture has gained acceptance in an otherwise Christian nation (Guile 2005). The Croc festival is also an indication of the extent of multiculturalism in Australia as it celebrates cultural diversity especially in relation to remote cultures in Australia. The success of multiculturalism in any country is seen by the tendency of people from other cultures to immigrate into that country (O’brien 2000). According to the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia, this country is a destination of choice for peoples from a wide range of cultures. For instance, Graham (2014) observes that the 2011 census reports show that between 2006 and 2011, the number of Indian immigrants doubled whereas Chinese immigration increased by 30% in the same period. The census report also shows that 10% of people from New Zealand were residing in Australia. Graham (2014) argues that such significant statistics is an indication of the success of multiculturalism in Australia. The Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils’ of Australia further gives credence to this assertion by noting that cultural acceptance is the main ingredient in achieving multicultural success in Australia. The integration of various religions in any society is an indication of the value that a society places on cultural differences (Fraser 2014). She notes that when a society recognizes the freedom of religion, it sets the way for success besides promoting social cohesion. In relation to Australia, the truth of these assertions is an indication of the measure of success that this nation has achieved in promoting cultural diversity. For instance, she opines that Australia has a rich web of religions ranging from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and even Judaism as well as Animism. This nation observes different religious festivals, for instance the Christmas day on December 25, as well as recognizing the Islamic events like the Holy Month of Ramadan among other religious festivals (Hinton 2001). As such, this society has managed to forge a united culture despite fundamental differences in the beliefs of various groups in its culture. Guile (2005) observes that the peaceful coexistence of these religions is a further proof of the success of Australia in promoting multiculturalism. The role of sports in promoting the peaceful coexistence of diverse cultures is immense (Meyers 2004). According to Bennet and Carter (2001), sports eliminate any demographic differences within a population. Hence, this elimination unites a nation towards a common cause of excellence in that particular sport. They give further credence to this assertion by noting that sport is a unifying factor and a major indication of the gains that a certain society has made in molding a multicultural society. The truth of the above statements is best-evidenced in the sporting culture of Australia. This nation has achieved considerable success in the international sporting environment. The success of Australia in mainstream sports, for instance in cricket is an indication of how diversity has entrenched itself in this country. Hughes (2000) further observes that various Australian teams such as the All Blacks represents the success of multiculturalism due to the presence of players from different cultures representing Australia. The same case applies to other teams, for instance the All Whites who have managed to pursue sporting excellence on the strength of cultural diversity. The success of multiculturalism in the Australian sports scene is also evident in various sporting events, for instance the annual Melbourne cup. Another major sporting event that highlights the success of multiculturalism in Australia is the Cricket Test match that takes place in Melbourne on the 26th of every December. This event is a magnet for people from a wide range of cultures both locally in Australia as well as internationally. The success of Australian commerce is partly attributable to cultural diversity (Cloakey and Jackson 2008). According to Coakley and Jackson (2008), cultural diversity in the business environment contributes greatly to the innovativeness of the Australian companies besides promoting cohesion in the society. Hence, Australian companies have managed to gain a competitive advantage by simply utilizing a culturally diverse workforce in order to understand the demands of clients from various cultures. As such, this further proves that Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. The promotion of multiculturalism in Australia especially the ensuing immigration has improved international relations with other countries (Neale et. al 2000). For instance, due to the presence of large populations of Indians, Chinese, British and even New Zealand, Australia can relate well diplomatically with these countries. These relations would be harder to achieve if such populations were to be prevented from immigrating into Australia. Fraser (2014) explains the enhancement in relations with the need for the mother countries to ensure that their citizens immigrating into Australia are accorded due rights and privileges. Such immigration also gives people from other nations a chance to achieve their potential in Australia hence improving the image of Australia in the world stage (Jackson 2000). As such, it is evident that Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. Despite a clear case for multiculturalism in Australia, there has been opposition to this modern day concept. Chris (2001) opposes multiculturalism in Australia by stating that it is an affront to social cohesion. He opines that the differences posed by diverse culture, for instance, linguistic differences, historical differences, as well as unfamiliar customs are likely to promote conflicts in the society. He explains this further by observing that Australia as a federation is better off solving the problems facing its inhabitants, especially the indigenous people rather than adding more problems through immigration. Such problems, he opines result from marginalization of minority communities. However, Fraser (2014) dismisses these concerns as farfetched and unnecessary. She states that every society has its problems, and it is upon that society to solve them rather than just blaming the system. She further observes that the success of modern day Australia hinges on immigrants starting from the British, Chinese, Indian, and other immigrants from other nations. As such, the argument against immigration fails because Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. The opponents of multiculturalism in Australia opine that eventually, if it goes on without control it will undermine democracy in the society (Chris 2001). He expresses that the fact that multiculturalism gives approval to people to practice their cultures promotes prejudices that are a common feature of traditional cultures. He further suggests that such prejudices are not useful to a country that needs to put preference on the unity of its people. As such, those of this view state that Australia is better off shunning multiculturalism and instead promoting a society based on the modern western culture. Such reasoning fails to recognize that in order to promote unity in any society, people have to recognize and celebrate their cultures rather than stifling them. It is also vital to recognize the fact that multiculturalism and democracy are not mutually exclusive ideals. In fact, democracy promotes multiculturalism in that it recognizes and provides for the development and coexistence of various cultures alongside each other. Graham (2014) gives further credence to this statement by writing that the mark of a democratic society is the peaceful coexistence of various cultures within that society. Hence, cultural diversity in Australia has promoted democracy and as such, there is truth in the assertion that Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. Besides the above concerns, opponents of multiculturalism in Australia are quick to point that promotion of immigration is contributing to overpopulation (Jackson 2000). For instance, the 2011 census shows that immigrants from China and India are almost doubling. Such demographic changes, they claim are not suitable for the country due to the pressure they put on social amenities. Chris (2001) suggests that the government should concentrate more on improving the lives of the indigenous Australians. This argument fails to recognize the contribution that multiculturalism has made to the development of the modern day Australia. Fraser (2014) opines that the pressure on resources is rife in any country whether multicultural or not. Hence, this problem is not unique to Australia. Besides that, he observes that increasing population leads to increase in human resource and in relation to Australia most of this increase is from skilled labor. This increase in the end is good for Australia since the cost of production is lowered hence giving the country’s products a competitive edge in the international markets. This shows that though there are problems; Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. Conclusion In essence, multiculturalism in Australia has benefited the country. Through multiculturalism, much has been achieved in uniting the country, promoting its image, and developing a conducive business environment. Besides that, multiculturalism enhances international. In relation to challenges facing multiculturalism like overpopulation, this can be addressed through other means for instance promotion of birth control measures. Concerns about multiculturalism and its effects on democracy are unfounded in that the two are interdependent. Hence, it is evident that Australia is an example of multiculturalism in action. Reference List Bennet, T & Carter , D 2001, Culture in Australia: policies, publics and programs, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Burton, P. J 2013, ‘Culture, identity and politics in the ancient Mediterranean world: papers from a conference in honour of Erich Gruen’, Journal of the Australian Society for Classical Studies, vol. 1, no. 4, pp. 34-45 Chris, H 2001, The trouble with multiculturalism in Australia, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Coakley, J & Jackson, S 2008, Sports in society: Issues and controversies in Australia and New Zealand Mcgraw-Hill, North Ryde, N.S.W. Crowder, G 2013, Theories of multiculturalism: An introduction, Polity Press, Cambridge. Eisenman, S 2005, ‘In Search of the Primitive: Gauguin, Morris and imperialist culture’, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Art vol. 15, no. 5, pp. 4-22. Fraser, L 2014, Life, ethics and faith in Australian society: facts and figures, Christian Research Association, Nunawading, Vic. Graham, D 2014, The Jewish population of Victoria: Key findings from 2011 census, Australian Centre for the Study of Jewish Civilisation, Monash University, Melbourn, Victoria. Guile, M 2005, Culture in Australia, Heinemann Library, Port Melbourne. Hinton, M 2001 Indegeneous Australians & amp; The Law. London, Routledge Cavendish Hughes, R 2000, Multiculturalism in Australia, Constable & Co., London, Jackson, P. A 2000, ‘Multicultural queer: Australian narratives’, Journal of Homosexuality, vol. 14, no. 6, pp. 76-81 Meyers,G. D 2004, The way forward : Collaboration and cooperation in the country, Australian Govt. Pub. Service, Perth. Neale, M, Kleinert, S & Bancroft, R 2000, The Oxford companion to Aboriginal art and culture, Oxford University Press, Melbourne. O'Brien, J 2000, ‘Creating a new moral order? Cultural change in Australian public service’, A Journal of the Social and Economic Relations of Work. vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 45-49 Victoria Police Academy 2003, Aboriginal Police Liason Unit: A viable concept for policing in an indigeneous society, The Academy, Victoria. Read More

Crowder (2013) explains that Australia is a perfect example of a country where Kymlicka’s theory of liberal rights to culture has been applied. He further writes that Kymlicka’s theory advocates for rights of minorities as a tool for peaceful coexistence, as exemplified by Australia in its protection of minority rights. This coexistence greatly shows the extent of success in maintaining a multicultural nation especially when in comparison with various other countries of the world whereby multiculturalism has failed.

Various cultural events in Australia, for instance the annual Mardi Gras festival, a gay and lesbian festival is an indication of how this culture has gained acceptance in an otherwise Christian nation (Guile 2005). The Croc festival is also an indication of the extent of multiculturalism in Australia as it celebrates cultural diversity especially in relation to remote cultures in Australia. The success of multiculturalism in any country is seen by the tendency of people from other cultures to immigrate into that country (O’brien 2000).

According to the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia, this country is a destination of choice for peoples from a wide range of cultures. For instance, Graham (2014) observes that the 2011 census reports show that between 2006 and 2011, the number of Indian immigrants doubled whereas Chinese immigration increased by 30% in the same period. The census report also shows that 10% of people from New Zealand were residing in Australia. Graham (2014) argues that such significant statistics is an indication of the success of multiculturalism in Australia.

The Federation of Ethnic Communities Councils’ of Australia further gives credence to this assertion by noting that cultural acceptance is the main ingredient in achieving multicultural success in Australia. The integration of various religions in any society is an indication of the value that a society places on cultural differences (Fraser 2014). She notes that when a society recognizes the freedom of religion, it sets the way for success besides promoting social cohesion. In relation to Australia, the truth of these assertions is an indication of the measure of success that this nation has achieved in promoting cultural diversity.

For instance, she opines that Australia has a rich web of religions ranging from Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and even Judaism as well as Animism. This nation observes different religious festivals, for instance the Christmas day on December 25, as well as recognizing the Islamic events like the Holy Month of Ramadan among other religious festivals (Hinton 2001). As such, this society has managed to forge a united culture despite fundamental differences in the beliefs of various groups in its culture.

Guile (2005) observes that the peaceful coexistence of these religions is a further proof of the success of Australia in promoting multiculturalism. The role of sports in promoting the peaceful coexistence of diverse cultures is immense (Meyers 2004). According to Bennet and Carter (2001), sports eliminate any demographic differences within a population. Hence, this elimination unites a nation towards a common cause of excellence in that particular sport. They give further credence to this assertion by noting that sport is a unifying factor and a major indication of the gains that a certain society has made in molding a multicultural society.

The truth of the above statements is best-evidenced in the sporting culture of Australia. This nation has achieved considerable success in the international sporting environment. The success of Australia in mainstream sports, for instance in cricket is an indication of how diversity has entrenched itself in this country. Hughes (2000) further observes that various Australian teams such as the All Blacks represents the success of multiculturalism due to the presence of players from different cultures representing Australia.

The same case applies to other teams, for instance the All Whites who have managed to pursue sporting excellence on the strength of cultural diversity.

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