Canada celebrates citizenship week

Dozens of special citizenship ceremonies will be held in communities across Canada from October 17 to 23 as part of the country's Citizenship Week festivities. Close to 1,800 newcomers from all over the world will take the citizenship oath during these ceremonies, and many Canadians will reaffirm their pride in being Canadian citizens.

"I encourage everyone to join in this year's Citizenship Week celebrations and express their pride in being part of the great Canadian family," said Immigration Minister Joe Volpe. "Canada's Citizenship Week provides an opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on the value of Canadian citizenship, our rights and responsibilities as citizens and the principles of respect, liberty, peace and belonging."

Citizenship Week festivities this year will also feature the presentation of 19 Citation for Citizenship awards in communities across Canada. The awards are presented every two years to honour Canadian individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exemplary citizenship in helping newcomers to successfully integrate into Canadian society.

"All Canadians can be immensely proud of the generosity and tireless effort each of this year's Citation award winners has demonstrated in helping newcomers more quickly adjust to their new life in Canada," Minister Volpe added. "These awards both recognize and reflect the values of caring, sharing and respect that have played such a critical role in helping make Canada the great country that it is today and that will continue to do so over the coming years."