Celebrating New Canadian Citizens in Saint-Léonard

Celebrating Canadian citizenship is always a special moment, and it was a privilege to join Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir and serve as the guest of honour at a citizenship ceremony here in Saint-Léonard. Hosted by l’Accueil aux immigrants de l’Est de Montréal (AIEM), in partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the ceremony brought together new Canadians, their families and loved ones to celebrate this important milestone.

For four decades, AIEM has been an important part of our community, supporting newcomers as they settle, build connections and establish their lives in Montreal. It was especially meaningful to celebrate alongside an organization that has helped generations of newcomers feel welcomed and at home in our community.

It was truly a joyous occasion, as the newest fifty Canadian citizens proudly received their citizenship, surrounded by family and friends who had supported them throughout their journeys. As someone who is herself a child of immigrants, I know how meaningful this moment can be. My parents came to Canada with hope, determination and dreams for their children. They believed in the opportunities this country could offer and worked hard to build a life and a future.

Here in Saint-Léonard–Saint-Michel, we see every day what makes Canada so special. Our community is home to people from different countries, cultures, languages and traditions. We may have different stories about where we come from, but we share something important: we are proud to call this community home.

Canadian citizenship is a great privilege, but it also comes with important responsibilities. As citizens, we have a duty to participate in our democracy, respect the rights and freedoms of others, contribute to our communities and help those around us. It means listening to one another, respecting our differences and doing our part to leave Canada stronger and more welcoming for the next generation.

To our newest Canadian citizens, your stories, experiences and traditions are now part of the Canadian story. Congratulations, and welcome home.