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The Institute for Canadian Citizenship had the honour of hosting an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony at the Ismaili Centre, Vancouver in British Columbia on March 16, 2023. The spiritual building is an architectural icon for a large and consistently growing community in Canada. Alongside many other cultural institutions, the Ismaili Centre hopes to cultivate understanding and acceptance among all Canadians.

Presiding Official Dr. Ross Paul administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 50 individuals from 21 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. While discussing the importance of the day, new Canadians share excitement about the number of civic responsibilities they are now granted. This is especially important because it ensures the protection of democracy at all levels of government. As it is important to maintain this system, it is also important not to take any responsibility for granted. Following the ceremony, these duties come with a larger number of privileges, as well.

“We were speaking about what active citizenship means. One person at our table is specifically excited for jury duty. But overall, active citizenship means participating in your community and voting to ensure that Canada is the best place it can be for everyone.”

Active citizenship can apply to a variety of actions. The excitement is palpable when hearing from individuals who are now gaining more access to these rights. Overall, making the community a better and more inclusive space is the motivational force behind this excitement.

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 profiles below.

Arwant Kang

Lawyer and Musician

He/Him

Arwant is a lawyer at an immigration and family law lawyer at a prominent boutique law firm in Downtown, Vancouver.

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Andrea Superstein

Jazz Musician

She/Her

Andrea Superstein is one of the most versatile voices in music today, dubbed as “redefining jazz” her debut performance at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival earned her a Galaxie Rising Star nomination and launched her squarely into the limelight.

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