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The National Film Board of Canada stood as the venue for ICC’s latest Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony. On May 4, 2023, new Canadians took the oath of citizenship in a space that values storytelling. Honouring a diverse collection of filmmakers ensures that we see all the cultures that flourish in Canada on the big screen. We can, then, build connections through the reflection and discussion of issues close to the hearts of all Canadians.

Citizenship Judge Marie Senecal-Tremblay administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 49 individuals from 15 countries as Canadian citizens.

During this ceremony, François Tremblay joined us as a guest speaker on behalf of the National Film Board of Canada (NFB). He spoke on using our collective experiences to create stories and films that actively display what Canada looks like today. Our personal histories are important because they have grown from our past and affect who we become in the future. In his concluding remarks, François Tremblay congratulated the new Canadians:

“We are honoured to witness this memorable moment and are moved that this event is taking place here, at home. Why? Because the NFB belongs to you. Here and across the country, we tell the stories of Canadians. So now, we tell your stories. No matter where you come from, one thing is certain: Your culture of origin, your life experiences, your history will enrich our great Canadian family.”

We are so happy that all the new citizens have chosen Canada! Each individual will surely be a wonderful addition to their communities and on a larger scale, the nation as whole.

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

More than 1.7 million permanent residents and 1.1 million new citizens have been admitted to Canada since 2018. Last year, Canada admitted 431,645 permanent residents, making it the largest number of people admitted in a year in Canadian history.

Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan aims to admit an even more ambitious number of 465,000 permanent residents in 2023. Based on the most recently available data, the Citizenship and Immigration Dashboard shows that IRCC has already hit 20% of the PR number target for 2023.

For those following the news on immigration in Canada, there have been a lot of record-setting headlines related to permanent resident admissions. For example, IRCC issued a record-breaking 11,000 express entry invitations in January 2023, only to break this record again in March 2023, inviting 21,000 candidates to apply for PR. Here is a short report on what Permanent Resident admissions in 2023 is starting out like.

Permanent Residence 2018-2023

Based on the Citizenship and Immigration Dashboard, the PR levels were mostly impacted during the Covid-19 pandemic and seem to be getting back on the average increase by 2022. We are yet to see what the percentage increase or decrease looks like at the end of 2023.

Permanent Residence in 2023

January 2023 set a record number where 50,885 PRs were admitted in Canada, followed by 49,550 PRs in February. Most PRs admitted were through the Economic-PNP (28,450) and Economic-Federal (32,560) while the Family stream (line in pink) also saw a significant uptick, admitting 23,755 PRs.

Permanent Residence by Province

In January and February 2023, Ontario (40,860) and British Columbia (17,500) were the top 2 immigration destinations, while Alberta (11,785) and Quebec (11,085) levelled with each other.

Regionally, Newfoundland in Atlantic Canada admitted 1,590 PRs, Quebec and Ontario trended steady inflows of PRs (see Citizenship and Immigration Dashboard), following the Prairies, Alberta experienced an increase in admitting 11,785 PRs (50% increase from last year), and in the north, Yukon PR numbers jumped from admitting an average of 30 PRs monthly to having 105 PRs in January and 170 PRs in February (160% increase from January and February of 2022).

While IRCC is meeting the immigration targets, the success rate could experience a dip due to the PSAC strike, where more than 155,000 government employees are participating, and immigration services are expected to face extensive delays. IRCC has not indicated how the strike will affect PR processing time and we are yet to see how the PR levels will unfold in the coming months.

Do you think this halt in immigration services will create a similar backlog that Canada faced due to the pandemic? What changes need to be implemented to create an immigration system where immigrant applicants aren’t adversely affected every time there is a shock or a stop in the process? How might this be affecting prospective immigrants’ views of Canada?

Take a look at our immigration dashboard for updated numbers of PRs and citizens and add your voice to the conversation (our social media links are below).

You can learn more about the ICC here. Join the conversation and be part of building a more inclusive Canada.

Interested in following us? Please sign up here for more updates from Ideas & Insights at ICC.
Be sure to keep a lookout for our next monthly ICC Immigration Dashboard analysis

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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.

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On March 22, 2023, ICC hosted an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony at the Remai Modern in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. As a contemporary art museum, the space uses accessible programming to ensure each guest feels inspired. They connect visitors with the past while envisioning new futures together through a mixture of local and international art collections.

Presiding Official Arnold Boldt administered the oath of citizenship and celebrated 32 individuals from 9 countries becoming Canadian citizens.

With spring beginning, the feelings of newness and rejuvenation surround us all. As new citizens enter this ceremony, they are able to prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead of them as Canadians.  The roots people have planted in Canada have a chance to flourish as each blossom blooms. This growth is reminiscent of how far each person has come on their journey. Throughout ICC’s signature roundtable discussions, citizens and their guests were able to connect with one another over shared hopes for their futures. These discussions are inspired by Indigenous Talking Circles that traditionally create spaces of inclusiveness and equality. One participant shared:

“Canada has given me the opportunity to give my children a future and we will always be thankful for the people who welcomed us here and made it feel like home.”

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.

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 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.

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The ICC was fortunate to celebrate new Canadians during an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony on March 14, 2023, in Montréal, Québec. At the Espace pour La Vie (Montreal’s Space for Life), guests are able to fully experience nature throughout the entire year. Since this connection with the natural surroundings is a priority within Canada, all guests in attendance were able to see the emphasis placed upon research, education and coexistence.

Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir administered the oath of citizenship and welcomed 47 individuals from 21 countries as Canadian citizens.

ICC’s Citizenship Ceremony featured our signature roundtable discussions between new citizens and their guests. These roundtable discussions are inspired by Indigenous Talking Circles that traditionally create spaces of inclusiveness and equality. Canadians participating in this Citizenship Ceremony come from countries all over the world. Their choices for coming to Canada vary from person to person. However, the desire to be Canadian connects them all. Once recognized as a Canadian citizen, the benefits make the challenging process and emotional decision worthwhile. One guest shared with the group their joy by saying:

“Becoming Canadian is giving myself and my daughter gender equality and safety.”

Canada, as a nation, strives to provide all citizens with the comfort and security to live their life to the fullest. The privilege to live without constant fear based on the differences that define you is an aspect of society we should all try to foster and protect for the sake of our diverse community.

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.

More than 200 Newcomers Attend Performance of James Kudelka’s Cinderella.

On March 14^th, the National Ballet of Canada, in partnership with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, hosted a magical evening for 200 newcomers to Canada. We would like to thank the National Ballet of Canada for this memorable night of beauty, culture and community building. Their commitment to enriching the lives of Canadians through the arts is inspiring.

James Kudelka’s Cinderella was breathtaking, set to Prokofiev’s vibrant score, with Art Deco-inspired designs by David Boechler and lighting by Christopher Dennis. But the night was about so much more than the performance.

The National Ballet is a valued Canoo partner, providing new Canadians and their families with access to exceptional cultural events. And thanks to their incredible generosity, last night marked the first time that 200 Canoo members gathered together under one roof. It provided a unique opportunity for newcomers to connect with members of the National Ballet, Canoo team members – and each other.

The night started with an exclusive Canoo pre-performance reception, held in the magnificent Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Just being in the same room as the stunning architecture, beautiful artwork and talented performers was enough to evoke a feeling of awe and electricity.

The evening’s events were introduced by Lisa Robinson, Senior Manager of Education & Community Engagement at the National Ballet of Canada, followed by remarks from Barry Hughson, Executive Director of the National Ballet and The Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson & John Ralston Saul, Co-Founders, Institute for Canadian Citizenshipand First Soloist, Tanya Howard.

They all emphasized the National Ballet’s commitment to enriching the lives of Canadians and the power of the arts to foster belonging and inclusion. In attendance were ICC’s founders, the Rt. Hon Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralston Saul.

As newcomer Citizenship rates drop across the country, the National Ballet’s initiative, in partnership with the ICC, is a testament that Canada has the potential to reverse this trend and provide true welcoming moments for Canada’s newest peoples.

Thank you to all who attended this wonderful event! Please share your experience (and photos!) on our social channels @CanooPass, @Inclusion.ca and in the comments.

Please click here to view all photos from The National Ballet and Canoo event.

According to Statistics Canada, over 7 million women living in Canada were born outside of the country, and in 2022, IRCC welcomed 242,884 female permanent residents, 52% of the total new permanent residents.

In our very own Canoo domain, women also make up 52% of the Canoo member base and in celebration of International Women’s Day, this Canoo Insights Report looks at the usage of Canoo by Canoo women members.

Main takeaways from this report:

• Since 2018, Canoo has served 94,950 women
• Since May 2022, women have saved $1,373,045

Recap: What is a Canoo Insights Report?

Canoo Insights Report is a quarterly series started by Ideas & Insights at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship that sheds light on our Canoo Access Pass program. Through these quarterly reports, we hope to:

1. Give readers a sense of the Canoo program
2. Reveal the impact of Canoo on its diverse members
3. Provide a glimpse into the moving parts of the Canoo program that make it the biggest welcome network in Canada

Here are some highlights about Canoo:

222,280 people have become Canoo members since Canoo transitioned from a paper pass into a mobile app in 2018. Since then, Canoo has served 94,950 women.

There are 65,690 currently active Canoo members participating in the program within their 12 months of access (a 25% increase from the previous Canoo Insight Report), and 33,226 of the currently active Canoo members are women.

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Gender Distribution of Active Canoo Members

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Visits by Canoo Women members

When a Canoo member visits a place or participates in an activity through the app, we refer to it as a “check-in“. Since May 2022, Canoo members have made 78,460 check-ins at places across the country. Women have made up slightly more than 50% of the check-ins.

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Top 5 Places Visited by Canoo Women Members

Through Canoo, women members have access to a variety of places across Canada. In every province and territory, women members can choose to visit museums, parks, events, and more. Here are some of the most popular places visited by Canoo women members in Canada.

Manitoba

Since May 2022, Canoo women members checked in 845 times to the top 5 places in Manitoba.

Value saved from visits to the top 5 places:

$ 9,940

Nova Scotia

Since May 2022, Canoo women members checked in 599 times to the top 5 places in Nova Scotia.

Value saved from visits to the top 5 places:

$ 5,944

Ontario

Since May 2022, Canoo women members checked in 14,066 times to the top 5 places in Ontario.

Value saved from visits to the top 5 places in ON:

$ 362,414

Quebec

Since May 2022, Canoo women members checked in 2,053 times to the top 5 places in Quebec.

Value saved from visits to the top 5 places:

$ 43,374

Saskatchewan

Since May 2022, Canoo women members checked in 107 times to the top 5 places in Saskatchewan.

Value saved from visits to the top 5 places:

$ 855

Did you find this report Interesting? If you want to read more, check out some of the earlier issues of Canoo Insights Report that highlight Canoo partners and members:

• Canoo Insights Report: Part 1
• Canoo Insights Report: Part 2

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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.