Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

Vancouver, July, 13, 2009 — On behalf of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney, Dr. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, attended a special citizenship ceremony today. The ceremony was held in partnership with the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Federal Secretariat, Canadian Heritage and the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC).

A total of 32 new Canadians from 13 different countries took the oath of citizenship at today’s ceremony.

The ceremony, held at VANOC’s headquarters, celebrated the many attributes Canada will showcase during the 2010 Winter Games, including diversity, inclusiveness, perseverance and national pride.

“Each year, Canada welcomes more than 200,000 people from around the world,” said Dr. Wong. “Every time Canada welcomes a new citizen, another page of our country’s story is written. Just as Canada’s athletes will make their mark in 2010, the individuals celebrated here today will become part of Canada’s vibrant history and culture.”

The Government of Canada is working closely with VANOC to make the 2010 Winter Games Canada’s Games, engaging citizens from all walks of life, from coast to coast to coast.

“The 2010 Winter Games will be an incredible opportunity to celebrate the talents of our Canadian athletes and showcase our unique culture and diversity, as well as what it means to be Canadian,” said the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport). “Today’s event reminds us that whether we’re talking about Olympic and Paralympic athletes or everyday citizens, our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.”

Chief Executive Officer of VANOC, John Furlong, who immigrated to Canada from Ireland more than 30 years ago, was a guest speaker at today’s ceremony.

“The moment I arrived in Canada, I fell in love with a country that was welcoming and diverse and rooted in unique values,” said Mr. Furlong. “At Vancouver 2010, we have taken those values to heart in our goal of making these Canada’s Games — ensuring that every citizen is filled with great pride as we welcome the world to Vancouver in 2010. As a proud Canadian, I am honoured to be part of a project that will help bring our country together and demonstrate our strength in and passion for sport.”

The Government of Canada is a major and committed partner in delivering successful Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. Hosting the 2010 Winter Games is a unique opportunity for Canada to showcase its accomplishments and innovations to the world, while realizing sustainable environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits across the country and for all Canadians.

For more information, visit www.Canada2010.gc.ca.

Filed under: News