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On October 29th, 2024, we had the privilege of hosting a unique citizenship ceremony at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum. 30 candidates from 14 different countries officially became Canadian citizens — all beneath the awe-inspiring skeleton of Canada’s largest blue whale. It was a ceremony unlike any other, set against the backdrop of hundreds of fascinating natural history exhibits.

The Beaty Biodiversity Museum, home to over 500 exhibits, was the perfect setting for this special day. From fossils to plants, shells to insects, the museum offers a glimpse into the incredible diversity of life on Earth — a fitting backdrop for a ceremony celebrating Canada’s own diversity. And of course, the giant blue whale skeleton hanging overhead served as a powerful symbol of how all living things are interconnected.

Quentin Cronk, the Director of the museum, also joined us and shared his thoughts on the importance of the museum to the community. He spoke about the value of the exhibits and how they help us understand the world around us. His words added an extra layer of meaning to the day, reminding us all how precious both our natural world and the Canadian community are.

The ceremony was made even more special by a beautiful performance from Jeff Bryant, who sang the Bilingual National Anthem and the song What a Wonderful World. The latter, with its hopeful message, was the perfect tune for such a joyful occasion.

Judge Carol-Ann Hart, who presided over the ceremony, along with Toko Peters, the clerk, made sure everything went smoothly and warmly congratulated the new citizens as they took their oaths. It was a heartfelt moment for everyone involved.

By the end of the ceremony, the 30 new citizens were officially welcomed into Canada — ready to begin this exciting new chapter of their lives. Standing under the blue whale skeleton, surrounded by history and natural wonders, it was clear that this was more than just a legal process; it was a moment of transformation.

We’re so grateful to have been able to host this citizenship ceremony at the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, a place that represents both the beauty of the natural world and the diversity of the Canadian spirit. We wish all of the new Canadian citizens a life full of success, happiness, and new adventures.

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.