Several individuals and families living in the Tri-Cities received an official "Welcome to Canada" at a July 1, 2024, reception hosted by the member of parliament for Port Moody–Coquitlam.
For the third Canada Day in a row, NDP MP Bonita Zarrillo organized the reception for new Canadians who had just received their citizenship.
“Canada Day is an opportunity to celebrate and also to reflect on what it means to be Canadian," she said in a news release.
"Each year, thousands of people embark on the journey to become Canadian. Canada is a mosaic, and days like today offer an opportunity to enjoy shared culture.”
Still, not all of the new Canadians who got their citizenship are new to the country; in fact, many have lived in Canada for decades.
Zarrillo's event included a meal, performances and a blessing from "Riley," a member of the Lil’wat Nation who offered traditional drumming.
“Celebrating with family and friends on Canada Day is a long-standing tradition in my family, and I always look forward to learning other family traditions on this day,” she said.
Notables names in attendance for the ceremony included Coquitlam-Burke Mountain MLA Fin Donnelly, Port Moody-Coquitlam MLA Rick Glumac and School District 43 board trustee Jennifer Blatherwick.
