Remarks by the Honourable Steven L. Point, OBC
Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia
Canada Day Citizenship Ceremony
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Vancouver, British Columbia
The Honourable Judge Robert Watt, Presiding Officer; Ms. Margaux Kaczor, Clerk of the Ceremony; federal, provincial and municipal representatives, new citizens and guests:
Canada is 143 years young today. We are a federation established in 1867 as a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as our head of state. Aboriginal peoples have, of course, occupied their traditional territories for thousands of years prior to 1867 and still do today as part of Canada's historic reality.
Being Canadian means to love this country, to participate in its democratic processes, to contribute where and when possible to the common good. Bring Canadian means to defend her at times of war and even to speak out in defence of the values and principles stated in her constitution. Being Canadian means to have an understanding of the path she has taken and the sacrifices made by others in the name of freedom and democracy both in Canada and abroad. Being Canadian means to spend some time learning our two official languages. Being Canadian is to learn about our governing structure and to always strive to participate in elections and debate with the aim at improving our democratic policies and practices.
Welcome to Canada – to your Canadian citizenship. I know it has been a lengthy journey for you all.
- Honorary Aides-de-Camp:
- - Mr. Herman Ho
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