Citizenship Ceremony and Discussion

The events were organized in partnership with Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship.

Prior to the ceremony, the candidates for Canadian citizenship shared their views on citizenship during a round-table discussion.

The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, 26th governor general of Canada, and the founder and co-chair of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, took part to the event. The Institute for Canadian Citizenship is a national, non-profit organization that engages Canadians in citizenship through innovative programs, campaigns and partnerships designed to ensure new citizens are welcomed and included as equals; create meaningful connections among all Canadian citizens; foster a culture of active, engaged citizens; and celebrate what it means to be Canadian.

Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister, Chris Alexander, also participated in the ceremony. He delivered an address and joined the Governor General and Ms. Clarkson in congratulating each new Canadian.

"In Canada, inclusiveness is a key value, which means that every Canadian citizen should have the opportunity to help shape this country for the better, regardless of background or ethnicity. As Canadian citizens, this is your right and, I would add, your responsibility. If we are to succeed in the ongoing national project we call Canada, and to maintain our commitment to democracy, to human rights and to justice, each one of us must do our part."

Aida Elena Aparicio Velasco proudly helds here citizenship certificate.

Entire families also became Canadians. Seen here from left to right: Ziaul Hoque Pavel, Sadeka Akther Deena, Tanaf Tahjir Mustaorid, Mamnun Mustaorid Swapnil.

Mr. David Razao was among the 49 new Canadians.

Ms. Guadalupe Daniela Escamilla Galvan is now officially Canadian.

Ms. Yana Melnikava became a Canadian citizen during the ceremony.

The Governor General was the presiding official administering the Oath of Citizenship and conferring citizenship certificates to 49 new Canadians from 34 countries during a ceremony at Rideau Hall.

At the end of the discussion, a representative from each table gave a summary of the specific topics on which they shared their views.

Following the ceremony, all the guests were invited to celebrate with a piece of cake.