For many new immigrants to Canada, citizenship and the rights associated with it, is a common goal.
On May 17th, in Dr J.E. Davey Elementary School’s maple leaf-decorated gymnasium, a group of individuals received their Canadian citizenship. Among these new citizens was Rangala Sirangani Jayatunge, accompanied by her husband and young son.
Originally a citizen of Sri Lanka, Jayatunge emigrated from her country in order to avoid the civil wars that were tearing the country apart, and threatening the safety of her and her family. While immediate safety was a concern, a major factor in Jayatunge’s decision to immigrate was her desire to provide her son with better educational opportunities.
After several years of education and work in Canada, Jayatunge has attained employment at One Hamilton, where she works as an office clerk.
Since arriving in Canada on July 1, 2008, she has worked hard to improve her situation. Initially, she stayed at home to care for her child, but after becoming involved with the Immigrant Women’s Centre, she was able to rely upon their childminding programs, taking courses in order to increase her employability.
“I did a workplace [class],” explained Jayatunge, “and after that I did a telephone communication course, and then I did some exams at Mohawk College. I was there for one year and I did some information technology courses, and then while doing that I was working at McMaster at Pizza Pizza.”
After several years of education and work in Canada, Jayatunge has attained employment at One Hamilton, where she works as an office clerk.
“It is a good job for her,” said Jayatunge’s husband, who is currently working at the Salvation Army. He is currently seeking validation for the credentials he earned prior to entering Canada.
The Jayatunges are pleased to have gained Canadian citizenship. However, Radenka Lescesen, Settlement Manager at the Immigrant Women’s Centre, feels that more should be done to create a welcoming environment.
“I found the ceremony intimidating,” said Lescesen. “Ideally, I would like to see it less formal, more like a celebration.” More could be done to represent the variety and diversity of Canada at an event which should act as a celebration of precisely that.
“There are huge benefits of getting a citizenship,” she explained. “It gives you a sense of belonging because you can be more active as a citizen. However, you’ve got to make an informed choice. Becoming a citizen will cut you from certain services. Some language classes…and child minding…and settlement support: they are not eligible for that anymore.”
At the citizenship ceremony at Dr Davey, attendees were informed of Canada’s magnificence. Several officials called the new citizens fortunate of their admittance to “the best country in the world” and a representative from the police force attempted to recruit new officers from the audience.
For Jayatunge, none of the pomp and intimidation can detract from her happiness at achieving full citizenship. Now legally able to work without limitations, she hopes to put her education to further use in her community.
“I am really proud,” she stated. “This was one of my goals, and I achieved it.”
By Evelyna Kay | Photos by Michelle Drew
