Ottawa, July 1, 2020—The Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued the following statement:

“Happy Canada Day 2020!

“This Canada Day is certainly one that we will all remember.

“The pandemic has changed the way that we celebrate today, and this includes being able to physically join in citizenship ceremonies to welcome our newest Canadians.

“Today I will have the honour to welcome families and individuals from coast to coast to coast in a virtual citizenship ceremony, and to celebrate the achievements of frontline workers who have joined the Canadian family recently in ‘A Celebration of Citizenship’ online event. 

“I encourage you to tune in at 2 p.m. EDT, to help welcome our newest Canadians and thank those who have been working the front lines to take care of their communities and help us get through the pandemic. This is active citizenship. We can all play a part in building the Canada we want to live in.

“The pandemic has increased the importance for Canadians to come together, to ensure that Canada continues to be a safe and prosperous country. Active citizenship is about asking questions, understanding our differences and engaging to make Canada a better place. 

“Canada Day is a time to reflect on our shared history and the people, cultures and events that have helped define us as Canadians. We honour Indigenous peoples who, from time immemorial, have shaped the history and culture of this land, and we recognize and remember the contributions of immigrants to our country.

“Today, we will welcome more newcomers whose journey has taken them through to citizenship. Our shared citizenship connects us as diverse Canadians. 

“It has been a challenging year so far, and we know there is work to do to become an even stronger Canada.

“This is a proud day. Enjoy.”

—The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, M.P., P.C.