‘We are better because you are here’: Citizenship ceremony in Halifax welcomes 51 new Canadians

Canada Day had a special meaning this year for a group of people who received their Canadian citizenship during a ceremony in Halifax.

Canada Day has an even more special meaning this year for a group of people who received their Canadian citizenship.

A total of 51 people from 18 different countries took part in a citizenship ceremony Tuesday held at the Canadian Museum of Immigration in Halifax.

The ceremony brought together the families and loved ones of those becoming Canada’s newest citizens to hear speeches and musical performances.

“Whether you arrived just a few years ago or decades ago, starting today, you’re part of shaping the next chapter of that story,” Lena Metlege Diab, the federal minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, told the group at Tuesday’s ceremony.

“Whether you came looking for economic opportunities to reunite with family or fleeing conflict, you have worked hard and shown resilience to reach the moment.”

“You chose Canada, and today I’m delighted to say that Canada is voting in favor of you,” says citizenship judge, Joan Mahoney.

Sherah Obien, originally from the Philippines, says the experience of getting her Canadian citizenship was one she’s waited for patiently.

“It’s very emotional for me. It’s amazing that I’m finally a Canadian citizen. I feel that all my hard work has been paid,” says Obien.

After getting married and buying a house in Nova Scotia, Obien says she has decided to stay in the province, making her one of many in attendance.

“For those of you that are choosing to stay in Halifax, a special thank you for choosing Halifax. We are better because you are here,” says deputy Mayor, Toni Mancini.

The gravity and responsibility of being Canadian could also be felt, as Mahoney explained a few of their rights.

“We have freedom of speech and freedom of thought. We have the important right to vote. And of course, you gain this right today and I hope you will take advantage of it at your first opportunity. You also have the right now should you choose to run as a candidate in a future election,” says Mahoney.

Brad Pease and his family previously lived in Denmark, but have since settled in Tantallon, N.S.

“We’re very proud to be Canadian now. It’s nice to have roots in a place. I’ve lived as a guest or visitor for over 20 years and other countries. So, it’s very meaningful to have roots and knowing that we’re planning to stay here for a long time,” says Pease.

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