INTRODUCTION TO CANADA

Social Customs

Introduction

Canadians are not a homogenous group and we pride ourselves on our sense of multiculturalism. Ethnic groups are encouraged to maintain their identity and to practice their customs within a Canadian context. Canadians pride themselves in being seen as separate individuals, rather than as representatives of a family or community

Each person is seen as responsible for his or her own behaviour. You will be expected to assert your rights and say what you mean. For example, disagreeing (politely) with your supervisor or professor is not viewed as a lack of respect. To remain silent and not to inquire is interpreted negatively as passivity and disinterest.

As with any culture, it is very difficult to make generalisations about social customs. The following information is presented as a guideline to assist you as you adapt to Canadian culture. Do not be surprised if you meet people who do not appear to follow these guidelines. Hopefully you will find the originality and the uniqueness of each person you meet as a positive aspect of Canadian culture.

Invitations

By accepting an invitation to a social function, you will indicate your ability and willingness to attend. It is not impolite to say "no" to an invitation but try to give a reason as to why you cannot accept and if you would like, indicate your interest at getting together at another mutually convenient time. If you have accepted an invitation, you are expected to attend. If you must cancel, telephone your host/hostess as soon as possible to let him/her know that you are unable to come.

Time

Canadians tend to place a high priority on punctuality. You are expected to be ready at the time agreed upon. If a time has been set for a business meeting, you are expected to arrive slightly before or at the time agreed upon. If you are going to be late, you should call to see if a later time would be convenient or if another appointment could be set up. If you arrive late for a meeting, you may find your appointment is canceled and the person is unable to see you.

If you are invited to someone's home, you are expected to arrive within five minutes after the scheduled time, but not prior to the time. Arriving late for social events or appointments is viewed as disrespectful. If you are going to be late, try to contact the other person to let them know.

Thank You's

It is not necessary to take a gift when you are invited for a meal; however, it is appropriate to ask your host if you could bring something to contribute to the meal. You may wish to present a small, inexpensive gift to your host(s) on special occasions or when staying overnight in his/her home. A written thank you note sent a few days after your visit is always appreciated. If you wish to extend an invitation to someone, do not feel that you have to go to a lot of expense. People will appreciate sampling a favorite ethnic dish that you have prepared and enjoy an evening of conversation.

Friendships

You will find Canadians generally easy to meet and talk to. Often, we will introduce ourselves without the benefit of a third party and invite new acquaintances to get together "soon" or suggest that we will "see you later". An actual invitation based on those comments may be long in coming. This should not be interpreted as disinterest in pursuing the friendship, as often friends will not see each other for extended periods of time. However, casual friendliness should not automatically be interpreted as friendship. Canadians tend to avoid deep involvement with more than one or two people and often "compartmentalize" their friendships. Having a "golf friend" or friends "at work" or "at school", is not uncommon. These remarks are not intended to discourage you from pursuing friendships, but rather to point out that ideas of "friendship" vary from culture to culture. Patience and time are often rewarded with close and lasting friendships.

Female/Male Roles

Historically, most women throughout the world have occupied a position subordinate to men. Women have been systemically excluded from decision and policy making at all levels: political, economical, and social. Women in Canada still experience discrimination and occupy some of the lowest paying, and lowest status jobs. There are instances where women still receive less pay than men even though they occupy the same job. Women still suffer sexual harassment, and continue to be the victims of domestic violence.

Fortunately, many women and men have worked to change this, and much progress has been made. In Canadian society, the role of men and women are not as specifically defined as in some cultures; women are increasingly participating in the work force, men are increasingly taking it upon themselves to share child and home care responsibilities with women.

It is highly unjust and disrespectful to treat a woman as being unequal to a man. Many women in Canada expect to share equally in decisions with male friends and acquaintances. Often, women may also wish to share equally in expenses when going on dates, outings, or social events, whether it be with a date, friend, or acquaintance.