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On June 5th, 2024, the ICC hosted an Enhanced Citizenship Ceremony in Vancouver at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site marking a significant moment in the lives of 28 individuals who became new Canadian citizens. The ceremony was not only a celebration of their citizenship but also a testament to the spirit of inclusion and identity as we celebrated Pride Month.

The candidates and guests joined roundtable hosts from Immigrant Networks and MOSAIC: Settlement and Employment Services for Newcomers to share what it means for them to either become citizens or watch their family members and friends become one. It was inspiring to hear from the President of Alture Properties, Peter Cheung share his own migration story from Vietnam in 1980. He has dedicated his time in Canada to helping newcomers establish themselves here just as he did.

The ceremony highlighted Pride Month where “2SLGBTQI+ communities and allies come together to spotlight the resilience, celebrate the talent, and recognize the contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ communities“. As we welcome new citizens, we remind them that in Canada human rights are at the pillar of the country’s values, and we encourage everyone to celebrate, respect, and uplift all people.

The ceremony concluded with a beautiful performance by Elisa Thorn who played the harp for the newly sworn-in Canadian citizens and rejoiced in the rendition of the national anthem by Cinnamon Sandhu.

This ceremony not only welcomed new citizens but also reinforced the values of inclusivity and identity in their new home country.

Happy Pride!

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@forcitizenship.ca.