How to Host a Citizenship Ceremony
For many individuals and families, the citizenship ceremony is the realization of a dream. In some instances, it marks the beginning of a new life. The citizenship ceremony is a formalized rite of passage that pinpoints a specific time of entry into the Canadian family. It confers rights and acknowledges responsibilities. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees to all Canadian citizens the following:
the right to vote in federal, provincial, and territorial elections
the right to be a candidate in federal, provincial, and territorial elections
the right to enter and leave Canada freely
minority language educational rights (English or French)
the right to apply for a Canadian
Responsibilities of citizenship:
to obey Canada’s laws
to vote in elections
to respect the rights and freedoms of others
to eliminate discrimination and injustice
to care for Canada’s heritage
to help others in the community
Citizenship Ceremony:
A citizenship ceremony is the final step in the process of becoming a Canadian citizen. It occurs after the individual passes either a written test or an oral hearing. There is a legal requirement for the individual to attend the ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship. During the ceremony, the new citizen receives a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship. Guests attending the ceremony, who are Canadian citizens, may be invited to reaffirm their commitment to Canada by repeating the oath along with the new citizens