Welcoming 50 new Canadians on eve of Pan American Games opening

Pan Am-themed citizenship ceremony leads the torch’s arrival at Nathan Phillips Square

July 9, 2015 — Toronto, Ontario — Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander personally welcomed fifty new citizens from 14 countries as new Canadians today at a special sport-themed citizenship ceremony. The ceremony took place on the stage where the games medals are to be presented in Nathan Phillips Square. Today’s ceremony occurred on Day 40 of the 41 day TORONTO 2015 Pan Am Games torch relay, allowing these new Canadians to share in the festivities celebrating the Pan Am flame. The torch, which symbolizes the spirit of the 41 participating nations and the history of the PAN AM Games, will make its final stop on July 10, 2015, at the Opening Ceremony of the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am Games.

At the ceremony, Minister Alexander emphasized the importance of sport in bringing together individuals of different cultures.

Toronto and the Greater Golden Horseshoe is hosting the TORONTO 2015 Pan and Parapan American Games, one of the largest multisport events ever held in Canada. Through its contributions to the Federal Cultural Strategy, the Government of Canada is helping promote Canadian culture and heritage, while showcasing Canadian values and enhancing engagement in the Americas.

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