When we think of cultural heritage, we often think of tangible items that are materially evident like art or monuments, but the concept is much wider than this. It’s not only the physical traces that represent a culture’s history, but also the ethos, beliefs, and values that are inherited by a community, both past and present. This includes both the intangible aspects of culture, such as community bonds and language, and the material objects that are passed from one generation to the next, as well as towns, landscapes, and underwater heritage.
The concept of cultural heritage varies greatly between different cultures and it is sometimes challenging to define. For example, some countries have a strong sense of national identity that is tied to its heritage. The country’s architecture, literature and music are all part of its heritage and it is a great source of pride for the nation. However, other cultures have a less defined heritage that focuses more on their values and traditions. This could be reflected in the way that they raise their children or how they celebrate festivals, both of which are a part of their culture.
One of the best ways to learn about your cultural heritage is to visit some of Canada’s historic sites that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. This is a great way to connect with the history of your family and the place that you live, as well as to understand how those roots have shaped you. Whether you’re on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia or the centre of cosmopolitan Toronto, you can visit many of Canada’s historic sites and immerse yourself in the culture that has made the country what it is today.
Alternatively, you can take a more introspective approach to determine your own heritage by asking yourself what makes you who you are. What is it about your ethnicity, religion, or family line that you feel a connection to? Is it the fact that you speak a certain language or the fact that your ancestors cooked a specific food dish at a special time of year?
Sadly, the world has witnessed cultural genocide in which the purposeful destruction of a culture is attempted by nonstate armed groups, militias or even despotic governments. These destructive actions often target the heritage of the victims, resulting in losses that are far greater than simply the destruction of buildings or the disappearance of objects. This is a form of social and cultural genocide that needs to be addressed by all nations, as well as by the international community at large.