5 days ago
'Pride and patriotism': 73 new Canadians take oath of citizenship on Canada Day
For new Canadian citizen Zainab Malik, being Canadian means valuing diversity and making sure residents are united in working to build a better country.
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'I think it's important, considering how Alberta politics is going and the wide expanse of politics that we're experiencing globally,' said the 32-year-old, who moved to Canada in 2015 from her native Pakistan. 'I think it's very important for us to carve our own space.
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Malik, who works in fashion but previously worked in medicine while living in Pakistan, was one of dozens of Calgarians who celebrated obtaining their citizenship on Tuesday, at a Canada Day ceremony hosted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada at the central library's amphitheatre.
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In total, 73 Canadians from 24 countries took their oath of citizenship, pledging to protect and honour their new country's institutions.
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The new citizens raised their right hands as they repeated the oath — first in English, then in French, to symbolize embracing Canada's two official languages.
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'On this Canada Day, we celebrate not only our country's birthday, but also you — our newest citizens,' said honorary Lt.-Col. Carolyn Patton, who presided over the ceremony.
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'Canada is stronger, Canada is richer and more vibrant because of the many cultures, new stories and experiences that bring each of you together. As you take this important step, know you're now a part of a national family built on respect and equality.'
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The ceremony also included a bagpipe performance, opening remarks and a video presentation highlighting the country's Indigenous peoples and the importance of reconciliation. Adrian Wolfleg, a Siksika Nation elder, provided the opening remarks.
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Other speakers included Alberta Senator Scott Tannas, Calgary-Buffalo MLA Joe Ceci, Calgary-Centre MP Greg McLean, Mayor Jyoti Gondek and Calgary Public Library executive Barb Gillard.
