Manitoba, since the arrival of non-indigenous people, has become a rich cultural mix and a beautiful collage of ethnic groups. Currently, the population consists of more than 40% non-white citizens.
The fastest-growing segment is South Asians, followed by Filipinos and East Asians.
The ratio of each of the contributing ethnic groups in Manitoba, as of 2021, boasts of an incredible rainbow of cultural groups and mixed ethnicities.
Ethnic Groups in Manitoba
The ethnic mix is as follows:
- English 16.09%
- Scottish 14.51%
- German 13.57%
- Ukrainian 12.65 %
- Irish 11.05%
- First Nations 16.73%
- French 9.28%
- Filipino 6.96%
- Metis 6.75%
- Polish 6.03%
- Mennonite 3.9%
- Russian 3.72%
- Dutch 3.32%
- Indian (South Asia) 3.9%
- Icelandic 2.38%
- Chinese 2.26%
- Italian, Swedish, Belgian, Norwegian, Welsh, Punjabi, Portuguese, Austrian, Spain, Hungary, Mexican, South American (mixed), misc. 13.17%
Many census respondents list more than one nationality in their backgrounds, with numerous people citing multiple ethnic origins.
Cultural Clubs & Associations Offer Guidance
Folklorama, Manitoba’s celebration of cultural diversity presented 45 pavilions in 2026, representing each culture and ethnic background in a week-long celebration of dance, music, food and history. Over 350,000 people visited the pavilions. Almost all of the ethnic groups participating also have their own cultural centres where members can embrace their roots. It is a testament to the way in which Manitobans embrace diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
When new immigrants arrive, they find that, first, their own community welcomes them, while the province offers a wealth of services to make them feel they belong. Aside from givernment services, a multitude of aid groups step forward, from language to socialization services.
Within the ethnic groups, clubs and associations spring up as the need arises and sufficient people of that background emigrate from their countries of origin. The India School of Dance and Theatre operates with hundreds of participants and has been thrivingf or nearly fifty years. Groups such as Japanese, German, Chinese and many others establish their cultursl centres as meeting places. No group is left out.