October 18, 2014 — Vancouver, BC — Today, the Honourable Tim Uppal, Minister of State for Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Edmonton—Sherwood Park, welcomed 13 new Canadians at a special citizenship ceremony hosted by the Vancouver Canucks.
To celebrate Citizenship Week 2014, Citizenship and Immigration Canada partnered with several National Hockey League (NHL) teams to hold special citizenship ceremonies at NHL games across Canada. These ceremonies give new citizens first-hand experience with Canada’s most cherished sport, strengthening their attachment to Canada and provide spectators the opportunity to celebrate these special moments with the new Canadians.
Today’s newest citizens were greeted personally by Minister Uppal and Vancouver Canucks Chief Operating Officer Victor de Bonis this afternoon. Celebrations will continue this evening as these new Canadians take to the ice to join in the singing of the National Anthem before the Vancouver Canucks face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
“There is almost nothing more Canadian than hockey, so what better way to offer new citizens a true taste of Canadian life than to involve them in one of Canada’s favourite pastimes. Sport transcends cultural boundaries and is a way we build connections between ourselves, our communities and our country. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to each and every new Canadian who took the Oath of Citizenship at this very special ceremony. Our government is proud to welcome these new Canadians who will make valuable contributions to our community here in Vancouver.”
Tim Uppal, Minister of State for Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Edmonton—Sherwood Park
Kevin Menard
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.