Ottawa Senators Make History with Record-Setting Citizenship Ceremony
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
A Milestone Event with the Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators are celebrating a landmark event, hosting a citizenship ceremony for 186 new Canadians from 39 nations. This historic gathering takes place today, creating a memorable moment for these new citizens.
The event kicked off at 2:30 p.m. at the Canadian Tire Centre, just before the Senators face off against the Calgary Flames. This ceremony marks the largest of its kind ever hosted by an NHL team. After taking the oath, the new citizens will grace the red carpet and sing “O Canada” on the center ice at 7 p.m., followed by enjoying the game as the Senators’ guests.
Notable attendees include Nicolas Ruszkowski, COO of Senators Sports & Entertainment, Karen McCrimmon representing Minister Ahmed Hussen, and former player Chris Neil. Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir officiates the ceremony, while Minister Hussen will join in the national anthem.
Immigration’s Role in Canada’s Success
The collaboration between the Ottawa Senators and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aligns with the #ImmigrationMatters campaign. This initiative highlights the positive impacts of immigration on Canadian communities, fostering meaningful connections between newcomers and citizens.
Voices from the Event
“We are delighted to partner with the Ottawa Senators for this extraordinary ceremony, the largest ever by an NHL team. Immigration enriches our nation, ensuring prosperity and success. We proudly welcome today’s new citizens to a diverse and equal Canada.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Our collaboration with IRCC emphasizes that the new citizens honored this weekend are as Canadian as hockey. We are thrilled to welcome them home.” – Nicolas Ruszkowski, COO, Senators Sports & Entertainment
Key Highlights
- The citizenship ceremony marks the conclusion of the immigration journey for newcomers. Taking the citizenship oath is a crucial step.
- New Canadians will sing “O Canada” on center ice, accompanied by OrKidstra, an Ottawa-based music program.
- Canada boasts one of the highest naturalization rates globally, with about 85% of eligible immigrants becoming citizens.
- Immigrants have significantly shaped Canada’s cultural and economic landscape.
- In the past decade, Canada has welcomed nearly 1.7 million new citizens.
Additional Resources
Contact Information
Media Inquiries Only
Mathieu Genest
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
