Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralston Saul bring inspiring remarks to UCalgary crowd

Diversity is a reality, inclusion is a choice. For the one in five individuals who come to Canada through the immigration process, it’s an important sentiment in today’s global political landscape. At a recent event in the city, it was also the focus of conversation and discussion.

6 Degrees is a program through the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC) that ‘connects thinkers and doers to drive the global conversation on inclusion and citizenship.’ Founded by the Right Hon. Adrienne Clarkson, 26th Governor General of Canada (1999-2005), and John Ralston Saul, essayist and novelist, 6 Degrees tackles what we can do to counter rising nativism and exclusion in the world. 6 Degrees launched in 2016 to enter the space as a public thought-leader around how to make the case for building inclusive societies.

On April 11, the University of Calgary hosted a lunch that extended the 6 Degrees Calgary: Towards Resilience event. Clarkson and Saul led a thought-provoking discussion about creating inclusive, resilient societies that pull together and do not fear each other.

“Communities are differentiated by their values and diversity, and our university is no different,” said Nuvyn Peters, vice-president (development and alumni engagement), who moderated the discussion. “We value a culture that encourages us to listen to one another, inspires us to engage purposefully, and respectfully welcomes open dialogue and debate — this event was a terrific example of this.”

Saul and Clarkson shared their comments on the value of immigration and diversity in Canada, and the importance of creating a discourse and language that allows people to discuss matters of belonging without fear. “6 Degrees loved being in Calgary because citizens here are so actively engaged and involved in their communities,” said Clarkson. “The University of Calgary epitomizes the intelligence, diversity, and commitment to bridge-building that the ICC and our 6 Degrees movement is all about.”

“It was exciting to be in a room with professors and supporters from my alma mater,” shared Saul, who received an Honorary Degree from the University of Calgary in 2003. “I have always been proud of my connection to the University of Calgary and to the city. The Calgary idea of volunteerism is growing and expanding as the city grows and becomes more diverse. I can’t think of a better match than the University of Calgary and our Institute for Canadian Citizenship — we all learned a lot by holding 6 Degrees in Calgary.”

In 2012, the Institute for Canadian Citizenship released its first report on Canadians’ thoughts on citizenship, which showed that the vast majority believe everyone can be a good citizen — and that people born in Canada, or elsewhere, see the freedom / democracy as the biggest reason to be proud to be Canadian.

“Universities play a critical role in sparking meaningful conversations about these issues facing our society,” says Peters. “The incredible support for our Energize campaign initiatives around diversity and inclusion will continue to open up a more and more compassionate understanding of the world. We’re so proud to be an integral part of that work, on campus and in the community.”

Read more about how to get involved with 6 Degrees Citizen Space and UCalgary’s Energize: The Campaign for Eyes High.