Maple News reports that July 1, 2024, marks the 157th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation—the day the British North America Act came into effect to officially create the Dominion of Canada. Known today as Canada Day, the national holiday is celebrated with parades, fireworks, concerts, and community gatherings from coast to coast.
Interestingly, Canada Day was originally called “Dominion Day” for over a century. The name change took place in 1982, coinciding with the patriation of the Canadian Constitution, making the country fully independent from the UK.
As Canada celebrates its rich history and vibrant diversity, Maple News takes a moment to highlight some unique and lesser-known facts about the country that continues to be a beacon for newcomers worldwide.
Canada is a global leader in diversity and inclusivity, with immigrants making up nearly 23% of its population, according to the 2021 census. This is the highest proportion of foreign-born residents among G7 nations and the largest share in Canada in 150 years. The country’s open and structured immigration system—dating back to the introduction of the points-based system in 1967—continues to attract talent, families, and dreamers from all over.
Covering nearly 10 million square kilometers, Canada is the second-largest country in the world. This vast landmass stretches across six time zones, from Pacific Standard Time on the west coast to Newfoundland Standard Time in the east. With the world’s longest coastline, Canada encompasses breathtaking geography—from rugged mountains to frozen tundras and lush forests.
Immigration has shaped Canada in countless ways, and nowhere is this legacy more vividly preserved than at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As Canada’s sixth national museum, it chronicles over 400 years of immigration history. Between 1928 and 1971, nearly one million newcomers entered Canada through this port of entry. Today, visitors can explore exhibits and even trace their own immigrant ancestry via the museum’s Scotiabank Family History Centre.
From its multicultural roots to its vast and varied geography, Canada’s story is one of resilience, openness, and evolution. As the country moves forward, it continues to embrace newcomers who shape its future and enrich the Canadian experience.
Happy Canada Day from all of us at Maple News.