A First Citizenship Ceremony
On January 17, 2026, Lieutenant Governor Manon Jeannotte presided over her very first citizenship ceremony — a moment filled with emotion, pride, and the promise of what lies ahead.
More Than a Symbolic Gesture
Welcoming new citizens means recognizing their courage and their determination. The courage to have left their homelands, to have learned, to have prepared themselves, and to choose, today, to commit fully to life in Canada and in Québec.
In her address, Ms. Jeannotte introduced herself with the authenticity that defines her. An Indigenous woman from the Micmac First Nation of Gespeg, in the Gaspésie region, and of Jersey descent, she herself embodies the reality of encounter between peoples that has defined Canada since its very beginnings.
"Canada has always been a welcoming land. My Mi'gmaq ancestors welcomed my Jersey ancestors. In that sense, I embody reconciliation."
Reconciliation, a Shared Horizon
Ms. Jeannotte used this meaningful occasion to raise awareness among new citizens about reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples — one of the guiding values of her mandate, alongside education and the environment. An essential topic for moving forward together as a society grounded in mutual respect and kindness.
She also invited them to travel across Québec, to follow the Pow-Wow trail, and to discover the richness of the Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities that make up this province.
A Ceremony Carried by Community
The ceremony was marked by the presence and words of Wendat Elder Mr. Gros-Louis, whose wisdom spoke to the depth of the bond between Indigenous peoples and those who choose to make their home here. Citizenship Judge Ms. Sfeir conducted the ceremony with great commitment, and Mayor De Sousa warmly welcomed the newcomers.
Cadets from Squadrons 588 Simms and 621 Saint-Laurent brought a musical presence that contributed to the ceremony's atmosphere — at once solemn and warm — under the direction of Captain Mélanie Bigras and Captain Tigrane Pasharyan.
To all those who took the oath that day, Ms. Jeannotte offered a heartfelt wish:
