New Citizens Reflect on Being Canadian

What is the one thing that best represents Canada to you?

“I immigrated because I couldn’t imagine a better place to live. What’s not to like? There is immeasurable beauty in this country, in both the landscape and the people. And, you play hockey!”
– Diane Green, British Columbia

“Nature and Canada’s vast expanses. Canada is such a beautiful country. I’m looking forward to the privilege of enjoying all the freedoms and responsibilities that come with Canadian citizenship.”
– Geraldine Buchanan, British Columbia

“The people in Canada are nice and it is the people that make this country safe and a good place to live.”
– Marites Pareja, British Columbia

“For me, it’s multiculturalism and unlimited opportunity.”
– Gillian Jamieson, British Columbia

“For me, it’s the maple leaf, in many ways. Maple syrup is sweet, delicious, and brings back memories for me. Also, in 1957, I lived in Canada and played for the Maple Leafs in the town of Port Credit, Ontario. We were part of the “paper weight” division. I also want to add that obtaining my Canadian Citizenship today marks the fulfillment of my father’s lifelong dream: to bring all his family to Canada. I’m extremely thrilled to call this country my home.”
– James Jamieson, British Columbia

As a new citizen of Canada, what is the first thing that you wish to do for your country and community?

“I feel privileged to be able to call myself Canadian. It’s been a long time coming! I feel lucky to be able to enjoy the freedoms of a citizen. I plan to get involved in the community to my fullest. I would like to volunteer at the immigration office to offer assistance for those on the same path that I just finished. Thank you for this luxury.”
– Misty Poitras, Alberta

“As a new citizen of Canada, I will continue to volunteer for advocacy for an advocacy group working for the welfare of people with developmental disabilities. I will also continue my volunteer work at Kairos Canada in Lethbridge addressing social justice issues locally, nationally, and globally. If given the opportunity, I would also like to be involved in the political field of our country.”
– Jimmy Tablan, Alberta

As a new Canadian citizen, what difference can you make to this country?

“I believe Canada’s public services and commitment to human rights align with my own values, and I want to contribute in having a positive impact in this country. I enjoy the diversity of people here and look forward to making the most of being part of the mix”
– Rebekah Steele, Ontario

“My husband and children are Canadian and as we continue to grow as a family within Canada, I would like to vote in local and general elections to make my voice heard in decisions that affect my family and I”
– Nicola Goertz, Ontario

“It has given me a home and the opportunity to make a meaning of my life. All the rights to me sounds like a privilege because I have come from a war town area”
– Ann Oduho, Ontario

“I will help those in need and volunteer in charity work. I will continue to work hard at the St. Joseph’s Villa. I hope God keeps me in good health so I can continue working for the elderly. I love my job.”
– Veron Campbell, Ontario

“To exercise my right to vote and make a positive contribution to Canada. To serve in various occupations in national security to make Canada a safer and better country to live in.”
– unknown, Ontario

“I will vote in elections and continue to promote volunteerism, especially through the Canadian Red Cross, as it helps my neighbours, my countrymen, and the vulnerable in Canada and around the world.”
– Elizabeth Landegger, Ontario