Surrounded by their families, friends and other supporters, 48 new Canadians from 18 countries made it official Tuesday afternoon.
Surrounded by their families, friends and other supporters, 48 new Canadians from 18 countries made it official Tuesday afternoon.
Advertisement 2
Article content
The Chatham Capitol Theater hosted the citizenship ceremony, with special guests and dignitaries in attendance.
Beginning with a piper procession, it featured a land acknowledgment, as well as words from Allen Deleary, chief administrator for Caldwell First Nation.
“It is with love and with kindness that we welcome you here,” he said, calling it an event of great significance.
Noting the long history of Turtle Island, or North America, he urged the gathering to continue to learn about the past.
“It helps us to know where we come from,” he said. “That helps us to know where we’re going.
“Each of you as newcomers, you certainly know where you come from. And know you know where you’re at and where you’re going.”
The group took the citizenship oath together, followed later by the singing of O Canada. There was a congratulatory video message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who said they were now “equal members of our country.”
Advertisement 3
Article content
After the ceremony, a reception was held for the new citizens, with many holding flags while hugging their loved ones.
Midia Suliaman and her daughter, Lilav Ezouli, came to Canada from Syria four years ago.
“I’m very happy. I have a home,” a visibly emotional Suliaman said, adding she appreciates the peace and safety that Canada offers.
Ezouli, a dental assistant graduate now working in her field, believes the country helps people reach their potential.
“I feel I have the right to study and become better every day,” she said.
Waseem Alsadiq, who came from Iraq five years ago, became a citizen with his wife and young daughter.
“It’s a phenomenal day,” he said. “This is a special occasion for our family.”
With a bachelor’s degree in computer technology, he works as an electronics technician.
Advertisement 4
Article content
As for the freedom Canada offers, he said “that’s No. 1” for him and his family.
He credited all the organizations involved in Tuesday’s event, as well as his neighbors and friends for their ongoing support.
“We’ve had a very nice experience,” he said.
Tracy Callaghan, chair of the Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership, as well as executive director for Adult Language and Learning, said there is a cultural mosaic locally, as well as nationally.
“Most people do not choose their citizenship, but instead are born into it,” she said. “(You’ve) each come across the globe, bringing your different cultures and experiences.
“You’ve all made the choice to become Canadian citizens through hard work and sacrifice.”
Article content