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For those who choose to become citizens of Canada, the journey ends and begins again with a citizenship ceremony. Little Canada, a museum that shows the entire country in miniature form, creates a unique environment for this significant event. As we entered the venue, the miniature cities came to life, offering a mesmerizing spectacle of Canada’s beauty. It was here that the new citizens would take the Oath of Citizenship and officially become Canadians.

Citizenship Judge Albert Wong administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 36 individuals from 17 countries as Canadian citizens on September 12, 2023.

MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam joined us for the ceremony to celebrate with the new citizens. She joined ICC’s Roundtable Discussions and participated in the conversations that bond new citizens and their families on this special day.

“Whether you chose Canada, or Canada chose you, all of our shared experiences connect us and make Canada better.”
– MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam

Canada is a country that embraces its newcomers, and Little Canada beautifully encapsulates the spirit of this nation. From the grandeur of its landscapes to the warmth of its people, there is so much to discover and cherish in Canada. We hope that new citizens can explore this incredible country, one province at a time, and contribute to its vibrant tapestry of cultures and traditions. Our citizenship ceremony at Little Canada was just the beginning of a lifelong journey in this land of endless possibilities.

“Canada is a country that takes a lifetime to discover.” – MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam

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.

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In a world where achieving goals is a universal pursuit, the Remai Modern in Saskatoon hosted a remarkable event – a citizenship ceremony. At this Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony, ICC celebrated not only individual accomplishments, but also the power of collective aspirations. This extraordinary gathering served as a reminder that setting and achieving goals is an essential part of our human experience.

Presiding Official Major Mark Rosin administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 30 individuals from 8 countries as Canadian citizens.

The heart of the event revolved around individuals sharing their stories at ICC’s signature roundtable discussions. They spoke of their goals when recounting their journeys, filled with challenges and triumphs, setbacks and successes. These stories highlighted the determination, perseverance, and resilience required to turn dreams into reality.

“It was my dream to start my own business and build my own house and Canada provided me with that opportunity and I’m forever grateful for this.” – New Canadian Citizen

The ceremony at the Remai Modern in Saskatoon was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of the humanity’s boundless capacity to dream, to work diligently, and to achieve great success. Against the backdrop of artistic beauty and diverse aspirations, attendees were reminded that goals, both personal and collective, are the driving force behind innovation, progress, and positive change.

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.

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Nestled in Ontario, Canada, you’ll find a beautiful historic structure known as Sharon Temple. The building and the grounds both stand as a testament to history and community. This iconic site hosted a citizenship ceremony on August 16, 2023 that transported attendees through time, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in the rich heritage that this historic site holds. Sharon Temple once served as a place for camaraderie. It now continues to serve as a beacon for the values of equality, peace, and social justice.

During the ceremony, Citizenship Judge Hardish Dhaliwal administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 42 individuals from 16 countries as Canadian citizens.

Joined by elected representatives, the new Canadian citizens were gifted a bag of carrots each in celebration of the vegetable harvesting that takes place in the region during this time of year. MP Scot Davidson, who gifted these carrots, chose to introduce new citizens to their local farmers who work hard to keep the people of their community and beyond fed.

Mayor Virginia Hackson also joined in ICC’s Roundtable Discussions as well as speaking as a special guest during the ceremony.

“Canada has a lot of opportunity to offer from sea to sea. I encourage you to continue moving forward in this positive way. Explore and experience all that Canada represents. Like many, you will experience some difficult days ahead of you as you continue to adjust. In those days, please reflect on today’s ceremony and on this room filled with love, support and strength.” – Mayor Virginia Hackson

The ceremony at the Sharon Temple offered more than just a trip down memory lane. Undeniably, it was an invitation to connect with the past and an opportunity to reflect on the values that continue to shape our future. As the day came to a close, attendees left with not only a deeper understanding of history but also a renewed sense of purpose.

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.

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Becoming a citizen of a new country is a momentous occasion that marks the finale of a journey filled with dreams, aspirations, and determination. In the heart of Edmonton, a city known for its cultural vibrancy and inclusivity, an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony took place on August 16, 2023.

During this ceremony, Presiding Official Mrs. Elexis Schloss administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 34 individuals from 13 countries as Canadian citizens.

We are grateful that Dr. Carola Cunningham joined us for the ceremony. She spoke about the needs of communities across Alberta battling with drug use amid the current fentanyl crisis. As we welcome new citizens into the Canadian family, we must recognize there are struggles that they are now a part of, as well. Advocating for others sheds light on severe issues that impact the lives of individuals and their loved ones.

This call to action resonated strongly, urging those in attendance to move beyond stigmatization and judgment. Instead, they were encouraged to channel efforts towards empathy, education, and support. This speech served as a catalyst for dialogue, inspiring new citizens to engage in meaningful conversations. They can then take concrete steps towards creating a safer and more compassionate community for everyone.

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.

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In the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony exemplified the spirit of unity and diversity. This citizenship ceremony at Dalhousie University brought together individuals from different corners of the world, who all gathered to embrace a new chapter in their lives. The ceremony was not just a legal formality, it was also a celebration of identities, cultures, and the shared values that bind us together as global citizens.

Citizenship Judge Joan Mahoney administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 38 individuals from 13 countries as Canadian citizens.

Before the ceremony began, ICC hosted roundtable discussions for the new citizens and their guests to connect with one another. During this time, they can build relationships around the memories created on this special day.

“I would just like to talk about how small of a world it is. We all have connections here.” – New Canadian Citizen

This was discovered when two guests at the roundtable discussions work together and unknowingly attended the same citizenship ceremony – one member as a guest in support of a new citizen and one new Canadian citizen. Their presence at the ceremony reflects their personal connections, and also their collective dedication to those who belong to the Halifax community.

Ultimately, this ceremony captures the essence of how even in a vast world, our lives are often interwoven through common experiences and the desire to create a welcoming community. It emphasizes that through collaboration, we can create a stronger and more inclusive society that embraces newcomers and celebrates all of their contributions.

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.

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At an ICC Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony, candidates for citizenship from across the globe were celebrated on July 25, 2023, as new Canadian citizens! With the theme of Canadian history and culture woven into every aspect of this ceremony, the diverse tapestry of Canada’s past, present, and future stood in the background to bring each individual together on this special day.

Presiding Official Irene Pfeiffer administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 38 individuals from 15 countries as Canadian citizens.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the display of cultural richness that Canada proudly embraces. Attendees marveled at the performance by the Young Bhangra Calgary dance group. Bhangra is a dance with roots in Punjabi culture. Today, you can find studios performing and competing across Canada. The Young Bhangra Calgary group not only showcased their performance but also conveyed a powerful message of unity and acceptance, transcending borders. This beautifully exemplifies how Canada is made up of so many cultures, each contributing to the nation’s unique identity.

This citizenship ceremony left an indelible mark as a profound celebration of Canadian identity. It was a moving reminder of the shared values and limitless potential that lie ahead for these new members of the Canadian family. Together, all in attendance embarked on a new chapter of their journey, forging a bright future as proud Canadian citizens.

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.

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This Canada Day, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a special event took place—an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony! Families and friends gathered in support of the individuals taking this significant step in their lives. The atmosphere was alive with joy and camaraderie, embodying the spirit of Canada.

Citizenship Judge Joan Mahoney administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 30 individuals from 13 countries as Canadian citizens on July 1, 2023.

During ICC’s Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies, we host roundtable discussions that bring new citizens and their guests together. Sharing stories and making connections helps community members bond over the special occasion that is their new citizenship. One participant shared:

“The ability to vote and being able to share what I feel openly is the reason I chose Canada.”

This discussion reinforced the idea that being Canadian goes beyond a mere legal status. It encompasses shared values, respect for diversity, and a commitment to building a better future together. New citizens now have the privilege and responsibility of contributing to their new home in so many ways. Joining the ranks of millions who have come before them, each person can now shape the fabric of Canadian society.

As the festivities came to a close, the new citizens embarked on their journey with newfound rights, responsibilities, and the enduring spirit of being Canadian. This memorable event will be etched on their hearts as a symbol of their integration into Canada and a beacon of hope for future generations.

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.

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The Dragon Boat Festival has become an annual event that people look forward to year-round! In 2018, the Dragon Boat Races celebrated 30 years of success in Vancouver with events now occurring across Canada. With a long history before the 1980s, the festival’s spirit has always lied in generosity, reciprocity and sharing. For this reason, you can find musicians from the community who play live music all weekend long on the stage. While on the water, you can watch the races and support those who compete.

Citizenship Judge Carol-Ann Hart administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 50 individuals from 17 countries becoming Canadian citizens.

Peter Wong spoke in congratulations to the new citizens as a representative for the Dragon Boat Festival when he said:

“You are now part of a diverse, multicultural society that embraces people from all walks of life. Our Canadian values include respect, tolerance, and equality. As you join this great Canadian family, we encourage you to celebrate your heritage and share your culture with us. Canada is a mosaic of cultures and each of you bring a unique perspective that enriches our society.”

During the Dragon Boat Festival, aspects of Chinese culture are shared with those who attend. Using the concerts and the cultural pavilion as additions to the dragon boat races, this festival now aims to build unity across the diverse communities of Vancouver. As each candidate became a Canadian citizen, they hold onto their history and their culture becoming one with this mosaic that we, as Canadians, hold in high regard.

To view photos of the Citizenship Ceremony, click here.

For more information on the Canadian International Dragon Boat Festival Society, 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.

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

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In collaboration with the Luminato Festival, ICC hosted an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony on June 7, 2023. Luminato Festival is an annual celebration of the arts across all mediums in city spaces.

“We believe that the arts are essential in building stronger, more connected communities and that creativity can inspire and change the world.” – Luminato Festival

This commitment to community matches ICC’s goals in building inclusivity across Canada. With citizenship ceremonies being open to the public, new Canadians can then feel the celebration and support from the community that surrounds them!

Citizenship Judge Hardish Dhaliwal administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 40 individuals from 18 countries as Canadian citizens during the ceremony.

The special guest speaker at this ceremony was ICC’s co-founder, John Ralston Saul. While congratulating the Canadians on their citizenship, he encouraged involvement in community activities. When specifically encouraging involvement in the arts, he said:

“The culture of a country is the basis of the country. Therefore, being interested in the arts in a country is one of the most important ways you can be a part of what Canada is and what it has built itself to be.”

Following the ceremony, we joined Little Amal in Nathan Phillips Square. Little Amal is a 12-foot-tall figure inspired by the story of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee. At this time, she is on a tour around the world as a symbol for human rights. Accompanied by musicians and dancers, this celebration of Little Amal also included a speech by the Right Honorable Adrienne Clarkson as an honorary grandmother to Little Amal. Alongside so many other influential women from Toronto and abroad who join her in this title, Madame Clarkson shared her advice to younger children.

This is an example of how art can tell stories that bring people together on local, national, and international levels. By participating in similar activities, Canadians from all walks of life will have the opportunity to make their mark.

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.

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

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The National Gallery of Canada opened its doors to new Canadians on May 26, 2023, for an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony. Anoksé – an Anishinaabemowin word meaning everything is connected – anchors and directs the Gallery. This played a key role in planning the citizenship ceremony because it drew on the significance of Citizenship Week and the impact that each individual’s actions have within Canada.

Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 39 individuals from 19 countries as Canadian citizens.

Upon receiving their Canadian citizenship, new citizens gain access to rights and privileges that they did not have before. With this comes responsibilities, as well, going beyond simply voting in elections. As active citizens, you can and should engage in civic activities, advocate for causes, volunteer, and work towards the betterment of society. ICC’s leader, Daniel Bernhard, congratulated the new Canadians and in his remarks, he continued this sentiment when said:

“The answer to our economic, environmental and cultural challenges is renewal: new energy, new optimism, new ideas, new skills, new resolve – to be better. To do better. That’s what you bring: difference. Different ways of doing things. Different ways of seeing things. You’re our difference makers.”

While candidates received their Canadian citizenship, they could see Parliament Hill through the grand windows in the Gallery. This view sparks the importance of our participation as citizens, inspiring constant change while in the heart of the Canadian political system.

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.

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