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Glowing hearts in Canada Day citizenship ceremony at Government House

Hina Charania blew a kiss to the cloudless sky. A moment earlier, cheers broke out at Government House in Victoria as 152 new Canadians from 33 countries were granted citizenship.
Photo - citizenship Canada Day
Soon-to-be Canadians recite the Oath of Citizenship at a ceremony at Government House in Victoria on Canada Day. July 1, 2017

Hina Charania blew a kiss to the cloudless sky.

A moment earlier, cheers broke out at Government House in Victoria as 152 new Canadians from 33 countries were granted citizenship.

Charania, who is from Pakistan, said the kiss was a commemoration to God and to her late father.

“I hope he’s watching,” she said. “This means liberty. I feel free. I feel like I have a voice and I’m heard.’ ”

Menghan Zhang, who came to Canada from China 13 years ago, was met by her friend Valerie Desmarais when she arrived at Government House for the special ceremony commemorating Canada’s 150th birthday.

Her red blazer and cream dress were a perfect match for the red rose Desmarais pinned to her lapel.

“I’m just so happy for Menghan so I wanted to come and help her celebrate,” said Desmarais.

“It’s been such a long journey,” said Zhang.

“But today is very special. It’s the beginning of a new journey for sure. I’m so in love with Canada. I love everything — the people are friendly for sure, peaceful and nice environment.”

Journalist David Bly was watching his wife receive her Canadian citizenship.

“I look at the people who have fled violence and oppression and it’s quite touching,” said Bly.

Nesrin Rashid Kadour’s husband Arif, who arrived in Canada from Syria four years ago, is one of many who fled violence.

“It’s a big deal,” said Rashid Kadour, holding their son Nehad by the hand. “Arif’s just happy that he feels safe. He loves Canada so much. We’re all very excited, especially the 150 celebration. He’s just happy to be part of it.”

Jacqueline Dorgan arrived on her bike and looked at the rows of white chairs wrapped in bows of red bunting.

“It just makes you cry,” Dorgan said. “Look at the mix of people, the diversity of people in those seats.”

The ceremony began with First Nations song. It ended with 152 newly glowing hearts.

ldickson@timescolonist.com