This week, I had the fortunate opportunity to participate in Roundtable discussions with new Canadians and later viewed their Citizenship Ceremony at The Reach in Abbotsford. The event was successfully organized by Gladwin Language Learning Center and was the first time I witnessed such an occasion. Being born and raised in this fine country, I have come to appreciate my own citizenship after hearing the many voices of new Canadians. Seeing the 29 faces from 15 different countries take there oath in both official languages touches your heart and soul. Many have come from lands far away to be part of our communities. During the hour Roundtable discussion many expressed that Canada is a peaceful and safe nation and its immigrants who create a vibrant Canadian culture.
At the same token some expressed the issues of racism and challenges to obtain work in their respective fields of employment. A lady from India shared that she was a science teacher in her home country and couldn’t get her qualification recognized in Canada. Overall, what impressed me the most about our newest Canadians was their integrity and commitment to make Canada a better place for generations to come. Many were abreast on current issues of importance and have been volunteering their time outside of their work commitments in various organizations adjusting to life in Canada.
Guests speakers included Sabrina Noorani, Sophia Yee, Abbotsford Mayor George Peary and Mission Mayor James Atebe, who just recently was named by Canadian Immigrant Magazine on a online poll as one of the top 25 immigrants in Canada. Mayor Atebe, shared that when he first arrived to Canada, he only had ten dollars in his pocket. Through hardwork and determination he was able to experience the Canadian dream, which he is extremely grateful.
After taking the Oath of Citizenship all 29 new Canadians received a Canadian flag by a RCMP officer and a certificate by Ms. Marie Bourgeois, who was the Presiding Officer. Bourgeois, a 12th generation Canadian whose family arrived in 1642, shared that she is always deeply touched when she informs new Canadians they are officially citizens often drawing tears. She also encourages new Canadians to have families, due to the decline in number of children in Canadian households. ESL student Lin Yuan, who has only been in Canada for three years moved from Richmond to Abbotsford, prepared a short speech about her life in Canada. The citizenship ceremony took an hour and a small reception followed. The first official ceremony took place in Ottawa, January 3, 1947 at the Supreme Court of Canada building. The month of May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada and we are reminded that we all have the same goals to build a prosperous and vibrant nation. Citizenship celebrates our spirit of multiculturalism towards building an inclusive, diverse country. I am privileged to have many new Canadian friends. Warm welcome to Canada.
Here are just some of the upcoming events that are happening:
---- This weekend, May 31st, the 2nd annual Run for Water is taking place in Abbotsford. There will be 5 km and 10 km runs. The Times is one of the sponsors. By competing in this event you are helping villages in Ethiopia acquire clean drinking water. For more information contact info@runforwater.ca
---- The Diversity Health Fair is happening at the Ag- Rec Building on June 6th. There will be over 40 exhibitors covering topics including everything from heart disease, allergies, eye care, dental care and Chinese medicine. For more information contact Sanjay Singh at sanjay@paralynx.com
------ On June 12th The “ Employment and Education Fair” is being held at the Mission Leisure Centre from 10am to 3pm. The event is free and a great opportunity to meet local employers. For more information contact Kusum Soni, Multicultural Services Coordinator at mcssmulticultural@shawbiz.ca
--- On June 19th from 11:30am to 3pm join the Host and Employment Mentors Program in Honouring National Aboriginal Day at the Abbotsford Community Services in the Jasbir Saran Room. For more information contact Pat Christie at patchristie@paralynx
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