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On March 23, 2023, ICC hosted an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony at the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories in Yellowknife, NWT. As one of the youngest legislatures, this space has quickly become a symbol of strength for the region. The architecture of the building represents the legislature’s consensus style of decision-making, while simultaneously, the design highlights the community values of the NWT people.

Commissioner Margaret Thom administered the oath of citizenship and welcomed 25 individuals from 13 countries as Canadian citizens.

Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies stand out thanks to the contributions of local guest speakers and performers. The memories made by these individuals occur when they take the stage to celebrate new Canadian citizens. This ceremony had an esteemed selection of special guests including, Commissioner Margaret Thom. Commissioner Thom spoke on the impact Indigenous culture has on Canada after leading everyone present in the oath of citizenship.

“Each June, Canadians celebrate National Indigenous History Month, which is an opportunity to honour the heritage, contributions, and cultures of all First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada. The history of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis is essentially a varied history of our country as we are the first peoples of Canada and continue to play important roles in its development and its future.”

While each person arriving in Canada adjusts to a new life here, it is critical to learn about the lands that you reside on and their histories. Using respect and consideration, we can coexist together during this era of reconciliation.

With ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, established Canadians have the ability to connect with new citizens building stronger community relationships. If you are interested in volunteering as a roundtable host at one of our ceremonies, please contact ceremonies@inclusion.ca.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here.

Finally, a special thank you to the guests that participated in this event. For more information, click on their profile below.

Miranda Currie

Multi-Disciplinary Musician

She/Her

Miranda Currie is a northern Indigenous multi-disciplinary artist living in Yellowknife. She walks in two worlds, with one foot in her Swampy Cree heritage and the other foot in her Euro-Canadian ancestry.

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