On Canadian Multiculturalism Day, Singh shared his personal experiences of growing up in Canada, and how the country’s official embrace of diversity often falls short of reality. “While Canada is known for celebrating Multiculturalism, as a kid growing up, it didn’t always feel that way,” Singh wrote on Twitter. “I remember feeling like there was […]

On Canadian Multiculturalism Day, Singh shared his personal experiences of growing up in Canada, and how the country’s official embrace of diversity often falls short of reality.

“While Canada is known for celebrating Multiculturalism, as a kid growing up, it didn’t always feel that way,” Singh wrote on Twitter. “I remember feeling like there was something wrong with me for just being me, and I wanted to belong.”
Singh said he learned early on that he had to “work twice as hard for half as much,” and that his turban and beard made him stand out.

Singh said he has been racially profiled and stopped by police during his time as a defence lawyer and even after he entered politics.

“Since being elected, I’ve faced criticism for caring about how I dress,” Singh said. “The truth is, like many [people of colour], I don’t have the privilege to not care.”

How people of colour dress “impacts how they are perceived and treated.” Singh said. “It is something we grapple with everyday.”

Singh, who is well-known for his sharp personal style, said that fashion allowed him the confidence to own his identity and do the work he was passionate about.

“Fashion became my social armour,” Singh said.

Singh said he hoped his story would help young people going through similar struggles with identity and belonging