Canada's foundation is its citizens. Whether we are born here or choose to move here, we are all Canadians. But do we have anything else in common besides the country we all call home? Despite different backgrounds and places of birth, those born in Canada and those who've immigrated here share similar values and perceptions of Canada, according to MasterCard Canada's 2008 'Priceless Index', which followed Canadians' views and attitudes about being Canadian and was released just in time for Canada Day. The credit card's 'Priceless Index' looked at both groups' views and attitudes about being Canadian and found that in fact we all share many common interests and values, but there are some subtle difference. The national survey by Environics Research Group of 2,299 adult Canadians (1,742 Canadian-born, 577 immigrants) was done by telephone between May 21 and June 4, 2008 for MasterCard Canada. Did you know? • Both Canadian-born and immigrants selected freedom (41 per cent) as their number one Canadian value, followed by democracy (13 per cent) and equality (11 per cent). Understandably, those born outside of Canada (17 per cent) are more likely to cite diversity as a key Canadian value. • Both groups agree that quality of life, security and beauty/environment are reasons for residing in Canada. Immigrants say they chose to live here primarily for family and economic opportunities, yet one quarter of those born in Canada assume freedom and political environment are the main reasons new immigrants come to Canada. • For both Canadian-born and immigrants, the ability to engage in active, outdoor sports is their favourite Canadian activity. Here in Brampton we have a big party to go to this July 1, so grab your friends and family, your Maple Leaf flags, show your patriotism and enjoy!
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