**Multiculturalism builds society, it certainly doesn’t destroy it.** • Multiculturalism is described as [“the manner in which a given society deals with cultural diversity”]( https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-multiculturalism-4689285) and can occur both at a national and community level. The most common way a multicultural society is formed, is through immigration whereby people come to live permanently in a foreign country. As immigration has diversified society and, _in my opinion_, enriched the lives of those living it, many people massively disagree which has caused huge tensions over recent years. • In principle, the idea of a multicultural society is very positive. It should include tolerance of different cultures, more understanding and respect for different traditions, an appreciation for the benefits of diversity and freedom to speak your native language. However, many societies across the world unfortunately don’t demonstrate very much acceptance to those they deem a threat to _their_ way of life. • Multiculturalism creates diversity and brings different cultures together whilst enabling them to co-exist. It allows for [learning and progress]( https://www.mvorganizing.org/what-are-the-benefits-of-living-in-a-multicultural-society/); children are given the opportunity to grow up with a greater understanding of different beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours. Having expanded their knowledge of others, children are thought to consequently become more tolerant of difference. It’s important to teach kids about multiculturalism from a young age. • The reason some would argue multiculturalism ‘destroys’ society, is because not everyone agrees that it’s a good thing. Some people don’t agree with immigration nor the action of helping refugees flee war-torn countries. Many people are hostile towards immigrants because of the myths perpetuated often by the right; _‘they’re stealing our jobs!’_ This results in prejudice and harmful stereotyping where, people suffer intolerance and mistreatment because of the thing that makes them ‘different’, be that race, religion, sexuality, or political beliefs. • I would argue it isn’t multiculturalism that is bad for society, but instead intolerance which ultimately threatens to destroy it. I think that when people become fearful, they tend to respond with anger and hostility, which makes it very difficult for different cultures to merge and immigrants to assimilate.