The most valuable gift Canada has to offer" was received by more than two
dozen people in Cambridge last week - Canadian citizenship.
Justice Glen Drinkwater spoke to an auditorium filled with people at the YMCA
on Hespeler Road on Friday, before a group of 28 people took an oath together
and were sworn in as official Canadian citizens.
Drinkwater acknowledged the citizenship court ceremony as an important
milestone for both the new citizens and for the country itself.
He reminded of Canadians' strong values and the country's "strong tradition
of justice".
"Bus it's the spirit that gives Canadians their special identity," he
noted.
The room was silent as Drinkwater spoke. Also in attendance for the ceremony
were local government officials, and employees of YMCA's immigrant services.
"When you return home, the real work begins...with the decisions you make as
Canadian citizens," he added.
Drinkwater also noted that this year marks the 60th anniversary of Canadian
citizenship status. Prior to the passage of Canada's Citizenship Act in 1947,
people who lived in Canada were considered British subjects.
Then prime minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King, was Canada's first official
citizen.
"And now, Canada has declared in favour of you," Drinkwater told the group,
after reminding of the "rigorous" citizenship process.
Immigrants seeking Canadian citizenship have to learn the structures of all
political parties, politicians' names, some Canadian history, and they are
required to live in the country for three of the last four years. They cannot
have a criminal record and are required to go through an examination
hearing.
After taking their oath and receiving their citizenship papers, the group of
new citizens, and others in the audience, were invited to sing O Canada.
Drinkwater also said the Canadian flag, created in 1965, acts as a "calling
card" and recognizes Canadians, without a distinction of race or religion.
"Some of you may have had to escape war-torn countries..."
The new citizens' talents, strengths and dreams will help to build a better
Canada, he said.
"We all belong."
