Bringing the Oath to Canada: A Call for Patriotism and Unity

By Dale Jodoin As Canada continues to grow and evolve, the importance of a shared sense of national identity and commitment becomes increasingly evident. One area where this need for unity is most pronounced is in the process of welcoming new citizens. Currently, immigrants who become Canadian citizens take an oath of allegiance to the monarch. While this tradition honors our constitutional monarchy, it overlooks a crucial element: a direct pledge to Canada itself. It's time we update this process to reflect the pride and dedication new citizens feel toward their new home. Canada’s oath of citizenship is a product of our country's history as part of the British Commonwealth. It reads as follows: "I swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, King of Canada, His Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada and fulfill my duties as a Canadian citizen." This oath ties new citizens to a centuries-old tradition, emphasizing loyalty to the Crown. However, it lacks a direct acknowledgment of the country they now call home—Canada itself. While respecting our heritage and the monarchy is important, the absence of a pledge directly to Canada can create a disconnect between new citizens and their sense of belonging to the country. Updating the oath to include a pledge to Canada would not only strengthen national unity but also instill a greater sense of pride and responsibility in new citizens. It would acknowledge their commitment to the land, its people, and its values. Such a change would be a significant step toward fostering a stronger, more inclusive national identity. A direct oath to Canada would resonate more deeply with new citizens who have chosen this country as their new home. It would highlight their commitment to the country’s democratic principles, its multicultural society, and its natural beauty. By doing so, we would be reinforcing the idea that being Canadian means more than just allegiance to a monarch; it means a commitment to the country’s future and its core values. Here is a proposed version of an updated oath that incorporates a pledge to Canada while retaining the traditional allegiance to the monarch: "I, [name], do solemnly swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Canada, my home and native land. From the towering Rockies to the vast prairies, from the majestic forests to the stunning coasts of the Atlantic, I pledge to honor and cherish this diverse and beautiful nation. I vow to uphold the principles of freedom, democracy, and justice that define our country. I will respect and protect the rights and freedoms of all Canadians, standing as a guardian of peace and safety. I will always be a patriot, defending Canada with courage and integrity, upholding the values and laws that bind us together as a united and proud people. I promise to love this country, in good times and bad, and to strive always to contribute to its growth and prosperity. With loyalty in my heart and determination in my soul, I take this oath to Canada, pledging my unwavering support and devotion, now and forever. So help me God." Stronger National Identity: A pledge to Canada reinforces the idea that we are a united nation, bound by common values and goals. This stronger sense of identity can enhance national cohesion and pride. Inclusivity and Belonging: New citizens would feel a deeper connection to Canada if they could directly pledge their allegiance to the country. This inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and encourages active participation in society. Recognition of Commitment: By pledging to Canada, new citizens would publicly acknowledge their commitment to the country’s well-being and future. This public declaration can serve as a powerful motivator for civic engagement and responsibility. Balancing Tradition and Modernity: While respecting the historical significance of the monarchy, updating the oath to include Canada acknowledges the evolving nature of our national identity. It’s a step toward modernizing our traditions to better reflect contemporary values. Of course, proposing changes to the citizenship oath is not without its challenges. There will be debates about the necessity and implications of such a change. Some might argue that the existing oath adequately represents Canadian values through the reference to the monarch. Others might be concerned about the logistical and legislative efforts required to implement a new oath. However, these challenges should not deter us from pursuing a more inclusive and representative pledge. The benefits of an updated oath far outweigh the difficulties. It’s an opportunity to create a meaningful tradition that resonates with both new and long-standing Canadians. As Canada continues to grow and diversify, it’s crucial that our national symbols and traditions evolve alongside us. Introducing an oath to Canada, alongside the traditional pledge to the monarch, would be a powerful step toward fostering a more inclusive and unified national identity. It’s a change that honors our past while embracing the future, ensuring that every new citizen feels a deep connection to the country they now call home. By making this change, we affirm our commitment to the values and principles that make Canada a beacon of hope and opportunity. We invite all Canadians to join in this journey, celebrating our shared heritage and looking forward to a brighter, more united future. Let’s embrace this opportunity to strengthen our national identity and make every Canadian proud to take an oath to the land they love.