Fort St. John welcomes new Canadian citizens

The ceremony began with an inspirational speech from Citizenship Judge Anne-Marie Kains, who welcomed the 105 people from 32 locations across the globe.

Judge Kain’s inspirational speech included a variety of topics, including the benefits of a Citizenship certificate. Some benefits mentioned were the ability to apply for a Canadian passport, as well as it being required to apply for a senior’s pension.

She then discussed the new privileges granted by becoming a citizen of Canada, including the right to vote, the freedoms of speech and to practice ones’ own religion and the right to live free of discrimination.

The speech then shifted to three promises the new Canadian citizens must make prior to receiving their certificates. Such promises were to pledge allegiance to Queen Elizabeth the second, to obey, value and respect all the laws of Canada, and finally to fulfill their duties as Canadian citizens, saying “only you can choose what those are, but take pride in the choices you make.”

Judge Kain concluded her motivating speech with a few uplifting words, saying, “history isn’t about old bad things, it’s about today.”

Following the speech, those receiving their citizenship were all asked to raise their right hand and swear in an oath of allegiance to the queen in both English and French.

Once that was completed, people were given their Certificates of Canada, declaring them official citizens of the country.

The monumental occasion was celebrated by a performance put on by Alwin Holland Elementary School students, followed by a closing speech by Judge Anne-Marie Kains then the singing of the Canadian national anthem.