With social injustice and equality movements headlining the media, Canada’s reputation as a multicultural nation has come under considerable scrutiny. To understand why, it has become increasingly important for scholars to critically evaluate where the idea of multiculturalism in Canada came from, under what context it was introduced, and how it was received. Following an empirical approach, this thesis examines the introduction of multiculturalism as an official federal policy, as delivered to the Canadian Parliament by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau on October 8, 1971. By starting here, this thesis examines the early usage of the word “multiculturalism” in a political context, and the ideas of national unity that purported its usage. The work of the Royal Commission of Bilingualism and Biculturalism in the 1960’s is also closely examined as it provided a rationale for Trudeau’s policy initiative on culture and identity. Finally, this thesis considers the political and public reaction to the policy announcement, paying particular attention to what support was offered in Parliament and in the media as well as the resistance that it met. Ultimately, this thesis shows that while the Report of the Royal Commission did not advocate for a policy of multiculturalism, the information it provided was instrumental in Trudeau’s decision to introduce multiculturalism as official policy and make it a central theme in the Canadian mindset. Multiculturalism also reflected Trudeau’s hope for a just society where rights and freedoms were paramount for each citizen.