Canada’s First Métis Citizenship Judge Welcomes New Canadians
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Welcoming New Canadians on Canada Day
On Canada Day, Citizenship Judge Suzanne Carrière will lead her inaugural ceremony, embracing 50 new citizens at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg. Nationwide, 1,950 individuals will take the Oath of Citizenship across 46 special events.
A Historic Appointment
As the first Métis citizenship judge, Suzanne Carrière’s legal career spans over 13 years, including eight with the federal Department of Justice in Aboriginal Legal Services. Her role involved representing Canada in numerous hearings and settlement discussions with Indian residential school survivors, addressing past grievances.
Roles and Responsibilities
Judge Carrière evaluates certain citizenship applications, oversees ceremonies, and administers the Oath of Citizenship. She fosters Canadian civic values in Manitoba’s communities, highlighting the importance of citizenship. Judges are appointed by the Governor in Council after a transparent, merit-based selection process.
Reflections from the Ceremony
“Canada’s appeal as an immigration destination is undeniable, being a welcoming, peaceful, and diverse nation. It’s my privilege to welcome new members into our Canadian family on Canada Day. These ceremonies allow us to celebrate our rights, shared values, and the responsibilities that unite us as Canadians!”
– Citizenship Judge Suzanne Carrière
“Participating in this Canada Day ceremony at Assiniboine Park is a true honor. I eagerly anticipate welcoming 50 new citizens on July 1. I encourage everyone to join in this celebration.”
“Welcoming Suzanne Carrière as a citizenship judge is a privilege. She brings exceptional skills and knowledge to the role, and I am delighted she has accepted this new position.”
– Honourable Jim Carr, Minister of Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre
Quick Facts about Canadian Citizenship
- In the last decade, Canada has embraced nearly 1.7 million new citizens.
- Citizenship ceremonies mark the culmination of an immigrant’s journey, characterized by emotional and celebratory moments. The Oath of Citizenship is a crucial legal milestone.
- The diverse contributions of immigrants have profoundly shaped Canada’s cultural and economic landscape. Diversity remains a cornerstone of Canadian identity.
- Canada hosts 14 citizenship judges in locations such as Halifax, Montreal, the Greater Toronto Area, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Surrey, British Columbia.
Associated Links
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 role of a citizenship judge in Canada?
Citizenship judges assess certain applications, conduct ceremonies, and promote Canadian civic values.
How many new citizens will Canada welcome on Canada Day?
On Canada Day, 1,950 individuals will become Canadian citizens at 46 ceremonies.
Who is Suzanne Carrière?
Suzanne Carrière is Canada’s first Métis citizenship judge with over 13 years of legal experience.
What is the significance of the Oath of Citizenship?
The Oath is a legal requirement and a ceremonial celebration of Canadian citizenship.
Where are Canadian citizenship judges located?
Judges are based in cities like Halifax, Montreal, the Greater Toronto Area, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Surrey.
