This exploratory study examines the issues connected with the civic participation of minority groups in Canada. Civic participation is service, either through appointment or election, on public boards and commissions other than those representing the participant's own ethnocultural group. Information was gathered from a literature review, interviews, and a focus group composed of minority group members experienced in civic affairs. The following major issues are discussed: (1) the need for a new definition of civic participation; (2) confusion on the part of minority group members about what the government expects of them and about whom they represent; (3) the slow pace of change toward equal representation in civic life, and the seemingly overwhelming odds against ever achieving that representation; (4) poor communication about opportunities and criteria for service; (5) the misconception that minority group members are interested only in human rights and related fields; and (6) trends in urban minority group politics that limit participation both among and within ethnic groups. A national survey of minority group attitudes is recommended. Two case studies are included. The appendixes include the following materials: (1) a 51-item bibliography of English-language resources; (2) a 30-item bibliography of French-language resources; (3) a 35-item bibliography of newspapers and magazines; and (4) four tables of statistical data. (FMW)