Citizenship

Judge Albert Wong recently encouraged 42 candidates from 11 countries to take a moment to reflect on their journey to become Canadians during a special citizenship ceremony held at the ��Ƶ Mississauga.

The session, one of the first held in person since the outbreak of COVID-19, was staged in Maanjiwe nendamowinan’s Grand Hall on March 21 in collaboration with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Judge Albert Wong, bottom left, presides over a citzenship ceremony at U of T Mississauga (photos by Laura Proctor)

During the program, Wong praised the staff of the IRCC for their efforts to swear-in more than 500,000 new citizens by Zoom video call during the pandemic.

He also said March 21 was an appropriate date to hold the ceremony, noting it coincided with both the onset of spring and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, reflecting times for fresh starts and bringing people together.

(photos by Laura Proctor)

Wong shared with the group his own immigration experience, moving to Canada from Malaysia in 1971. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces as soon as he graduated high school, eventually serving nearly 40 years before becoming a citizenship judge.

In addition to Wong, U of T Vice-President and Principal U of T Mississauga Alexandra Gillespie and Vice-Provost, International Student Experience Alexie Tcheuyap – themselves immigrants from New Zealand and Cameroon, respectively – attended the ceremony.

Nigerian Canadian poet and U of T Mississauga alumnus Ayomide Bayowa, Mississauga’s current poet laureate, performed a special piece in honour of the new citizens.

U of T Vice-President and Principal of U of T Mississauga Alexandra Gillespie speaks into a microphone at top left and poses for a group photo that includes Alexie Tcheuyap, U of T’s associate vice-president and vice-provost, international student experience (photos by Laura Proctor)

As they collected their certificates conferring their new status, Wong gave the group words of encouragement, reminding them that, in Canada, “diversity is our strength.”

“This is a threshold moment, not the end of your citizenship journey,” he said, urging the newcomers to involve themselves in Canada’s Indigenous reconciliation and social inclusion efforts and encouraging them to pursue artistic endeavours to bring “light and joy and beauty and peace” to their new home.

“Citizenship is an instrument to make our country stronger.”

Hundreds receive their Canadian citizenship at Convocation Hall ceremony

geoff.vendeville — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 14:01:40 +0000

Hundreds receive their Canadian citizenship at Convocation Hall ceremony

geoff.vendeville Mon, 02/04/2019 - 09:01

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U of T President Meric Gertler said it was fitting to host a citizenship ceremony at U of T, which “like Canada itself reflects the diversity of the world” (photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

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For Professor Maydianne Andrade, speaking at a citizenship ceremony at the ��Ƶ over the weekend was a reminder of her own family's experience coming to Canada.

She moved here from Jamaica with her family when she was three years old, and she acquired her citizenship at eight.

“Know that the children around the room are thinking, ‘Is this ever going to be over?’” she told the crowd of about 500 people at the ceremony in Convocation Hall on Saturday. “But someday, they'll come forward and say thank you so much for the bravery and the courage it took to come to Canada and become of Canada.”

Her parents didn't go to university, Andrade said, but they valued higher education. When people asked why they moved to Burnaby, B.C., her parents pointed to the Simon Fraser University campus on the hill and said their kids would go there one day.

Many years later, Andrade did. She acquired her bachelor's of science, writing a thesis on the effect of artificial selection on behavioural variation within clones of the pea aphid. The self-described “bug nerd” now runs a lab focused on integrative behavioural ecology of mating, chiefly in black widow spiders. She also promotes diversity and inclusion at U of T Scarborough as vice-dean of faculty affairs and equity.

In her lectures on evolutionary biology, she teaches students about adaptation and the benefits of having different types of traits. The same might be said for Canada, she told everyone at the citizenship ceremony. “Different ideas, different cultures, the ability to think in new ways about problems – this is what makes us strong as a nation and as individuals,” she said.

A woman studies the oath of citizenship with a Mandarin translation (photo by Geoffrey Vendeville)

Being a member of the platform party was also personal for Sandy Welsh, U of T's vice-provost, students and a professor of sociology. She came to Canada from the U.S. and got her Canadian citizenship about a decade ago. “The citizenship ceremony was a wonderful experience to share with all the new Canadians,” she told U of T News. “All walked into Convocation Hall with different life experiences and they walked out with something they shared – being a Canadian citizen.”

After the birth of her second child, she realized that Canada wasn’t only her kids’ home, it was hers too. Welsh told U of T News she wanted to become a Canadian citizen so her children saw the importance of voting. “We wanted our kids to see us voting and participating in democratic society,” she said.

U of T President Meric Gertler, federal Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen and U of T Chancellor Rose Patten joined Andrade and Welsh in welcoming the new citizens to the stage when their names were called.

“On this momentous occasion, and reflecting on the turmoil and uncertainty in the world, it is easy to be reminded of how fortunate we are to be Canadians and to live in this wonderful country,” President Gertler said. “At the same time, I want to emphasize how fortunate Canada is to welcome all of you as citizens.”

Professor Maydianne Andrade, in the department of biological sciences at U of T Scarborough, was part of the platform party for the citizenship ceremony in Convocation Hall on Saturday (photo by Geoffrey Vendeville)

Patten, who spent three decades working at the highest levels on Bay Street, said her career took her around the world, giving her a special perspective on Canada.

“In my experience, Canada and Canadians are more than a place and a people,” she said. “We are an idea brought to life by diverse communities spread across a vast landscape.

“We have built an inclusive and harmonious society that combines opportunity and prosperity with fairness and compassion.”

Among the new Canadians in the hall Saturday were Sue Murphy, from the office of the vice-provost, faculty and academic life, and her husband Cormac. They moved to Canada eight years ago, and it feels like home, Murphy said.

“I most definitely feel a sense of being Canadian after being integrated and being welcomed into this city and culture,” she said.

She's retained her Irish lilt, though she's adopted some Canadian words and expressions. She's substituted “sidewalk” for “footpath,” and “garbage” for “rubbish bin.”

Going into the citizenship ceremony, she didn’t know what to expect. The more than century-old venue added a feeling of grandeur that suited the occasion, she said. She was happy to see familiar faces among the platform party.

And when she returned to work on Monday, she discovered a little surprise at her desk: Her co-workers had decorated it with maple leaf flags.

U of T News spoke to several other Canadians at Saturday's ceremony about what the day meant to them.

Muntasir Hossain

From the United Arab Emirates

“I had a few friends who had come to Toronto before. They said it's a very nice place, it's multicultural, there are people accepting everywhere. And there are tons of food options. I love Toronto, I love the vibe it has. Go Raps go!

“I have the right to vote now. That makes a difference... before I wasn't too inclined to research the people who were campaigning. Sure, you hear about them on the news, but now I will invest more of my time to see which candidates align with how I feel. I think that's a huge part of being in a community.”

Cara Du Boulay

From Saint Lucia

“I came in here not knowing what to expect. My emotions were all over the place. When I went up to receive my certificate, it made me feel more complete.

“I feel like now I can use this to impact society with whatever skills I have, and to push forward with confidence.”

Vandad Akhtarkhavari

From Iran

“I don't feel any different now – well, kind of. I don't know how to explain this. It's just exciting and it feels really good.

“This is probably never going to happen but I want to be quarterback for the Patriots or, like, a lawyer.”

Demetria Q.

From St. Vincent and the Grenadines

“I had already considered myself Canadian but this was the last step to finally finish the process. I think for me it's really important because every time I travel I'm the odd one out in my family. Everyone has a Canadian passport ... Now that I'm going to be legally Canadian, I won't feel as much like an outsider.”

Mike Doherty

From Ireland

“It means a whole lot to me ... In Ireland there was the recession and all of that. I came here to get a better life for myself. I met my wife here and now I have a daughter, born seven months ago so she's a Canadian. For me to be a Canadian and have us all as a family of Canadians is really good.”

In the Globe and Mail: What U of T's Mark Lautens learns from citizenship ceremonies

geoff.vendeville — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 17:19:14 +0000

In the Globe and Mail: What U of T's Mark Lautens learns from citizenship ceremonies

geoff.vendeville Mon, 07/30/2018 - 13:19

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University Professor Mark Lautens writes in the Globe and Mail that presiding over citizenship ceremonies is an eye-opening experience (photo courtesy of Mark Lautens)

Topic

Faculty of Arts & Science

Global

Mark Lautens was born in Hamilton, Ont. But over the past few years he's attended citizenship ceremonies two to three times a month, gaining a fuller appreciation of his Canadian-ness in the process.

An Officer of the Order of Canada, Lautens has the privilege of presiding over these ceremonies and explaining to participants what it means to be Canadian and to take the oath of citizenship.

“I have come to the realization that I benefit more from the ceremony than those I serve,” Lautens, a University Professor in the ��Ƶ's chemistry department, writes in the Globe and Mail.

“If you want to gain a deep appreciation of what it means to become a Canadian, attend a ceremony and meet our newest citizens and listen to their stories.”

Several citizenship ceremonies have been hosted at the ��Ƶ in recent years. Last year, one was held at U of T Scarborough and another at Convocation Hall.

Read the full op-ed in the Globe and Mail

Marking Canada's 150th anniversary, hundreds sworn in as new citizens at U of T's Convocation Hall

geoff.vendeville — Mon, 18 Dec 2017 16:36:29 +0000

Marking Canada's 150th anniversary, hundreds sworn in as new citizens at U of T's Convocation Hall

geoff.vendeville Mon, 12/18/2017 - 11:36

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U of T President Meric Gertler greets a young, new Canadian at a citizenship ceremony in Convocation Hall on Saturday (all photos by Laura Pedersen)

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In the ��Ƶ hall where students take their first steps as graduates, about 500 people from around the world started a new chapter in their lives as Canadian citizens.

People of all ages and backgrounds filled Convocation Hall on U of T’s downtown Toronto campus on Saturday to take the oath of citizenship and sing the national anthem.

One of their first acts as citizens was to receive a warm welcome from a platform party that included U of T President Meric Gertler, federal Science Minister and alumna Kirsty Duncan, Chair of U of T's Governing Council Claire Kennedy, Chancellor Michael Wilson, Chancellor Emerita Vivienne Poy and University College Principal Donald Ainslie, who is also the chair of U of T's sesquicentennial committee.

President Gertler thanked those acquiring citizenship for coming to Canada – and for enriching the country with their ideas and traditions.

“The news reminds us on a daily basis of how fortunate we are to live in Canada,” he told the audience, “but on this day we are also reminded of how fortunate we are that Canada continues to attract wonderful people from around the world, people who want to help strengthen our institutions, enrich our multicultural fabric and defend our values as Canadians.”

Hundreds swore allegiance to the Queen in the oath of citizenship

Duncan, who before taking office taught medical geography at U of T Scarborough and corporate responsibility at the Rotman School of Management, greeted the newest members of “our Canadian family.”

“Most of us, our families come from elsewhere,” she said, “and they have built this country, and you will build this country. You are already building this country.”

Those in attendance waved mini Canadian flags and wore Maple Leaf pins on their lapels. The 150^th anniversary of Canadian Confederation made the already special occasion even more momentous. Saturday's citizenship ceremony was the culmination of a series of Canada 150 events at U of T throughout the year.

Visit U of T's Canada 150 website

Speakers at the ceremony took the opportunity to discuss the country's commitment to multiculturalism. Poy, the first Canadian senator of Asian descent, told the crowd that she and her husband chose to stay in Canada instead of moving to the U.S. because they thought Canada is a better place to raise a family.

“Canadians are defined by the way we behave, not by the colour of their skin,” she said.

Wilson, U of T's current chancellor and former ambassador to the U.S., said travelling had given him a special perspective on Canada. The country is “a source of hope” and “welcomes people of all backgrounds and celebrates diversity as a real strength.”

U of T News spoke to five new Canadians about why they chose this country and their ambitions.

Nashwan Ashraf

Country of origin: Bangladesh

“I was excited because we've been waiting for the opportunity to become citizens for a long time. It was fun. I hope to grow up to be a great Canadian.”

Julija Pesic, PhD candidate in U of T's Centre for Drama, Theatre & Performance Studies

Country of origin: Serbia

“This moment was extremely emotional for me. The ��Ƶ and this country opened the door for me. I came here and restarted my academic career. I found new friends. I found a very supportive environment.”

Payal Khazanchi

Country of origin: India

“I've heard so many good things about Canada. We met people who are Canadians and they are very polite.”

Why did she and her family come here? “I personally wanted to see snow.”

Paulo Bella

Country of origin: Philippines

“Canada is one of the best places in the world. The people are nice, the culture is great – plus it's a multicultural country. Who wouldn't want to be here?”

Sylvia Barton

Country of origin: Jamaica

“It's the end of a long journey, and it's a great accomplishment for my family and me.”

Read about last year's swearing-in at Convocation Hall

Read about last summer's citizenship ceremony at U of T Scarborough

Citizenship ceremony at U of T Scarborough brings more than a few surprises

rasbachn — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 20:00:33 +0000

Citizenship ceremony at U of T Scarborough brings more than a few surprises

rasbachn Fri, 08/25/2017 - 16:00

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U of T Scarborough has been hosting citizenship ceremonies for years, but this was the first year it worked with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, a national non-profit that delivers programs to inspire inclusion (photo by Ken Jones)

Author legacy

Alexa Battler

Topic

City & Culture

��Ƶ Scarborough

Citizenship

Despite being in labour, Julie Yap couldn’t miss seeing her husband Dan receive his official Canadian citizenship at U of T Scarborough.

The soon-to-be-parents, who are originally from the Philippines, were excited to add another Canadian citizen to their family. “It makes today more extraordinary and special, because there’s two big events happening in one day,” Julie said. “I’m happy he was able to get his citizenship before I give birth.”

Dan was one of the 40 new Canadians from 23 countries who received their citizenship at U of T Scarborough. Julie said she plans on getting her own citizenship in two years when she reaches the eligible amount of time for permanent residents to become citizens.

The ceremony was also a time for the couple to reflect on what Canada has meant to them, and will mean to their child.

“We all agree that we should preserve Canadian culture and the notion that Canadians are nice and friendly and accommodating,” Dan said. “If you bump into someone who needs help – we’ve all been there – we help them.”

Julie and Dan Yap: She didn't want to miss her husband's citizenship ceremony at U of T Scarborough, despite being in labour (photo by Ken Jones)

While U of T Scarborough has been hosting citizenship ceremonies for years, this was the first year that the campus worked with the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC), a national non-profit that delivers programs to inspire inclusion and encourage active citizenship. They also partnered with Toronto Ward Museum, an online museum that details the experiences of immigrant communities in Toronto.

The ICC will be hosting 75 community citizenship ceremonies across the country this year.

“We look for cultural spaces that open to the public, that are warm and welcoming,” said Salima Jaffer, manager of partners for the ICC’s Building Citizenship program. “We really look for a place that has a strong engagement with their community, and U of T Scarborough does absolutely fit that.”

ICC ceremonies include their unique roundtable discussions. Before receiving their citizenship certificate, attendees sit in small groups and share their journeys to Canada, and their hopes and dreams as Canadian citizens. The discussions are facilitated by community leaders, after which one person from each group shares for one minute what their table discussed.

Melanie Blackman (left), a community development coordinator at U of T Scarborough, took part in Friday's citizenship ceremony (photo by Ken Jones)

"A moment like this is really quite transformative for new citizens,” Jaffer said. “It’s giving them an opportunity to think about why Canada is important to them, why they chose Canada, and what is special about this country.”

Wilton Gillard, who comes from Trinidad and Tobago, said the discussions were an opportunity to reflect and learn about one another.

“We talked about being Canadian – to be able to travel freely, to be able to live in peace, to be able to learn and enjoy each other and defend each other,” Gillard said. “We stand up for what’s right, no matter our background.”

Read about a previous citizenship ceremony at Convocaion Hall

Almost 500 sworn in as citizens at U of T's Convocation Hall – including undergrad and professor

sgupta — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:43:55 +0000

Almost 500 sworn in as citizens at U of T's Convocation Hall – including undergrad and professor sgupta Mon, 02/08/2016 - 05:43

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Yaser Nabib (pictured here with Vice-President and Provost Cheryl Regehr) is in his first year of civil engineering at U of T (all photos by Johnny Guatto)

Alan Christie

Author legacy

Alan Christie

See a photo gallery of the ceremony

Upfold came to Canada in May, 2011 from Britain. Her husband Chris, seven-year-old son Stanley and Elsie are all Canadian. She said “it is so lovely that all of our family now is Canadian. It is a privilege to become one.” Elsie, when not exploring through people’s bags, took a Canadian flag from Chancellor Michael Wilson.

Yaser Nabib, 18, was there with his mom Iftasum, both becoming citizens after arriving here from Bangladesh five years ago. Nabib is in first year of civil engineering at U of T.

“I’m so proud of him,” Iftasum said. “He is a really good student.”

Suzanne Stevenson, born in Virginia, has been in Canada for 16 years. It was her son Kiva who said she should become a citizen.

A professor of computer science at U of T, Stevenson (pictured below) said she became quite emotional while being sworn in as a Canadian. “My son said it would mean a lot to him for me to do this. I love the country of my birth but I love Canada. It has the social values that I admire.

“I became quite emotional taking the oath, and I am quite emotional just talking about it now.”

In an email to U of T News on Feb 8, Stevenson said that when she returned to Santa Barbara where she is on sabbatical, her husband, U of T Professor Sven Dickinson, was holding a Canadian flag.

“Probably the first time that has ever happened in little Santa Barbara,” she said.

Twenty-four-year-old Jeanette Salvador and her sister Alexis, 14, from The Philippines, were both sworn-in. “It’s a great feeling,” she said. “My mother worked very hard for this.”

It was also an emotional day for Shirley Hoy, vice-chair of the Governing Council and chair elect. Born in China, she said the ceremony brought back memories of when she became a citizen. Hoy (pictured below) said she experienced “the undeniable challenges you have overcome to be here today.”

John McCallum, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, administered the oath the new citizens repeated, first in French, then English.

Speaking before giving the oath, McCallum (pictured at right with Gertler) said there are “certain parallels” between the people who are now Canadians and the 25,000 Syrian refugees Canada is accepting.

“It tells you something about the nature of the country you are about to join,” he said. The government’s plan to find homes for the refugees is a “national non-partisan project. It speaks to why Canada seeks out newcomers to build our country.”

The civil war in Syria has created “the worst refugee crisis for decades, and during a time when other countries are reticent to receive refugees, we are standing out as a welcoming beacon,” McCallum said.

He said “once you become a citizen, no one can take that away from you.” All Canadians, he said, no matter how long they have been in the country, “have equal rights and equal responsibilities.”

McCallum said it is a huge pleasure for him to take part in a citizenship ceremony, “especially in one of Canada’s top universities.”

Chancellor Wilson urged the new citizens to “learn more about your country, read our history, vote in elections and become engaged in your community.” Such things, he said, will help them get “the full measure of being a Canadian.”

Gertler said “throughout our history, Canada’s greatest strength has been its people. We are blessed with abundant natural resources and a favourable location on the globe, but Canadians built and continue to build this great country, its institutions and its values.”

Canada, he said, “embraces the broadest range of people, encourages the free expression of perspectives and ideals,” and the U of T community is like Canada in that “we prize inclusion, respect and civility in our shared pursuit of the common goals.”

Gertler said as he looked out upon the new Canadians and their families, “I am immensely optimistic about our future. Your ideas, your traditions, your perspectives will make our great nation more vibrant, more dynamic, more successful and a better place for us all.”

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