Oath of Citizenship Bill Introduced in Parliament

From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Introduction of the New Citizenship Oath

The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has introduced a bill to amend the Citizenship Act. This amendment aims to incorporate references to Indigenous Peoples’ rights into the Oath of Citizenship, aligning with recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Recognizing Indigenous Rights

February 18, 2020 – Ottawa – The proposed change acknowledges the rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. It reflects Canada’s commitment to reconciliation and renewing relationships with Indigenous communities based on rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership.

The new Oath text will include: “I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of Canada, Her Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada, including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen.”

By reciting the Oath, new Canadians vow to uphold Canadian laws and embrace the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The government encourages active community involvement to uphold Canadian values.

Statements from Government Officials

“The Oath is a solemn declaration that all newcomers recite during the citizenship ceremony. With this amendment, we will take an important step towards reconciliation by encouraging new Canadians to fully appreciate and respect the significant role of Indigenous Peoples in forming Canada’s fabric and identity.”

“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action are an important roadmap for all Canadians. From coast to coast to coast, orders of government, civil society, education and health-care institutions, and the private sector are demonstrating their commitment to this important journey as we build a stronger Canada together. The change to the Oath of Citizenship introduced today responds to Call to Action No. 94 and demonstrates to all Canadians, including to our newest citizens, that Indigenous and treaty rights are an essential part of our country.”

“Indigenous Peoples have a rich history and have helped shape this country. I encourage everyone to respect, learn about and understand the place and importance they have in this country. The Government of Canada is committed to fundamentally transforming the relationship with Indigenous Peoples. The change in the Oath is an important step to create a foundation for a stronger, more prosperous and inclusive Canada.”

“The proposed change in the Oath recognizes the contributions that First Nations, Inuit and Métis have made to Canada. I am pleased that we are once again moving forward in making the Oath of Canadian Citizenship inclusive. Reconciliation and reaffirmation of rights will help Canada create a strong, inclusive Northern Policy that will benefit all Northerners and all Canadians.”

“I welcome the Government’s new legislation to change the Oath of Citizenship to better reflect a more inclusive history of Canada, as recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in its final report. To understand what it means to be Canadian, it is important to know about the 3 founding peoples – the Indigenous People, the French and the British. Reconciliation requires that a new vision, based on a commitment to mutual respect, be developed. Part of that vision is encouraging all Canadians, including newcomers, to understand the history of First Nations, Métis and Inuit including information about the treaties and the history of the residential schools so that we all honour the truth and work together to build a more inclusive Canada.”

Quick Facts

• The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report emphasizes that Canada’s Oath of Citizenship should include a promise to respect Aboriginal and Treaty rights.

• The Government extensively consulted with national Indigenous organizations on the proposed changes to the Oath of Citizenship.

• Canada supports the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which upholds Indigenous Peoples’ human rights, self-determination, language, equality, and land rights.

• Indigenous People currently make up 5% of Canada’s population, totaling over 1.6 million individuals.

Contact Information

Media Contacts

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 purpose of amending the Oath of Citizenship?

The amendment aims to include references to the rights of Indigenous Peoples, promoting reconciliation and acknowledging their significant role in Canada.

Who was consulted on the Oath amendment?

The Government engaged with national Indigenous organizations to discuss the proposed changes to the Oath of Citizenship.

What is the new Oath of Citizenship?

The revised Oath includes a commitment to respect the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, alongside allegiance to Canada.

How does this change align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations?

The amendment responds to Call to Action No. 94, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous and treaty rights as part of Canada’s identity.

What impact does this change aim to have on new Canadians?

It encourages newcomers to appreciate and honor the foundational role of Indigenous Peoples, promoting a more inclusive and respectful Canadian society.

For additional details, please Read our immigration guide.