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On March 2, 2023, ICC had the pleasure of hosting an in-person Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony at the Art Gallery of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta. Using art and enriching exhibitions, the Gallery aims to create a welcoming space. Guests are, then, encouraged to challenge their understanding of the world and redefine the practice of equity.

Presiding Official Ellicia Vieira administered the oath of citizenship and welcomed 39 individuals from 18 countries as Canadian citizens.

ICC’s Citizenship Ceremony featured our signature roundtable discussions between new citizens and their guests. These discussions are inspired by Indigenous Talking Circles that traditionally create spaces of inclusiveness and equality.

A young roundtable participant stated during this session:

“We all shared the things we brought from back home to Canada and what connects us through this. Things like food…It’s interesting to see how everyone connects with this.”

Afterwards, they discussed the different meals from their home countries that they love most.

While moving to a new country results in so much change, it is important to remain connected to the past. Through food and family recipes, people can find comfort in their culture. This makes food more than just sustenance. It is a strong element that defines where we come from. Likewise, sharing the differences surrounding meal practices and preparations will only create a more beautifully diverse Canada.

We can embrace equity throughout Canada by embracing all cultures found within Canada. As a central aspect of culture, food undeniably remains in the hearts of all Canadians and newcomers, alike.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here.

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.

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

The Melisizwe Brothers

Musicians

He/Him/They

The Melisizwe Brothers – Marc, Seth and Zacary – from Leduc, Alberta Canada are three multi-talented brothers who have received international recognition for their incredible musical talent. The Melisizwe Brothers have established themselves as “America’s Most Musical Family” scoring a recording contract with the world’s top leading music company “Republic Records”.

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Dorothy Thunder

Cree Instructor

She/Her

Dorothy Thunder is a Plains Cree (nêhiyawiskwêw) from Little Pine First Nation, Saskatchewan and full-time Cree instructor in Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. She completed her BA in Native Studies in June 2002 and MSc in Linguistics in December 2015

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