Welcoming New Canadians with the Whitecaps on Canada Day
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Celebrating Citizenship on Canada Day
This July 1, as part of Canada Day celebrations, Citizenship Judge Carol-Ann Hart will conduct a special ceremony with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC at BC Place. Sixty individuals will be granted Canadian citizenship during this event.
Across Canada, a total of 1,950 individuals will be welcomed as citizens in 46 unique ceremonies on this national holiday.
Highlights of the Vancouver Ceremony
The Vancouver event is set for 2:30 p.m., preceding the Whitecaps’ match against the Colorado Rapids. This will be Judge Hart’s inaugural ceremony as a newly appointed citizenship judge, with highlights shared during the game.
About Judge Carol-Ann Hart
Judge Hart, an adept barrister and solicitor, has extensive experience as an arbitrator, mediator, and investigator. She holds degrees from Université Laval and McGill University and is a chartered arbitrator. Her past role involved adjudicating Indian residential school claims.
In her new role, Judge Hart will make decisions on citizenship applications and preside over ceremonies, also promoting Canadian citizenship and civic values throughout British Columbia. Citizenship judges are appointed through a transparent, merit-based selection process.
Voices from the Ceremony
“I am deeply honored to serve as a Citizenship Judge. After years of adjudicating Indian Residential Schools claims, I can now welcome new citizens who have also experienced challenges. Hosting a Canada Day ceremony is a profound privilege.”
“On Canada Day, I celebrate with our new citizens the diversity, rights, and freedoms we cherish.” – Citizenship Judge Carol-Ann Hart
“Reciting the Oath of Citizenship on July 1st with new Canadians is truly an honor. As an immigrant myself, I recognize Canada’s birthday as a day of unity, diversity, and opportunity. Happy Canada Day!”
“I am delighted to welcome Carol-Ann Hart as a citizenship judge. Her skills and experience are commendable. Congratulations to Judge Hart.” – Dr. Hedy Fry, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Centre.
Quick Facts About Canadian Citizenship
- Canada has welcomed nearly 1.7 million new citizens over the past decade.
- Citizenship ceremonies mark the conclusion of immigration and integration, serving as an emotional celebration and a legal requirement for new citizens.
- Immigrants have significantly shaped Canada’s cultural and economic identity, with diversity being a core strength.
- Canada hosts 14 citizenship judges in cities like Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Surrey.
Associated Resources
- Minister Hussen announces the appointment of 10 citizenship judges
- Profiles of citizenship judges
- Canada Day
Contact Information
Media Contacts Only:
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations:
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the citizenship ceremony?
The citizenship ceremony signifies the completion of the immigration process, marking a new beginning as a Canadian citizen.
How many people will become Canadians on Canada Day?
A total of 1,950 individuals will be welcomed as citizens in various ceremonies across the country on Canada Day.
Who is Judge Carol-Ann Hart?
Judge Hart is a newly appointed citizenship judge known for her extensive legal and adjudication experience, now presiding over citizenship ceremonies in British Columbia.
Celebrate diversity and citizenship. Read our immigration guide.
