January 3, 1947.   It was on this date 74 years ago that a significant Canadian milestone was achieved.  In Ottawa, the first-ever Canadian Citizenship ceremony was held.  Prime Minister Mackenzie King received the first certificate of citizenship, appropriately numbered “0001.”  Joining him that special day were 25 others.  Readers today will be interested in the fact that famed photographer Yousuf Karsh was amongst those who received their certificates at the ceremony at the Supreme Court. The Canadian Citizenship Act had come into force just two days prior, on January 1st, 1947.  Prior to that point, Canadians were simply British subjects living in Canada.  But, the Second World War had provoked a surge in Canadian pride and nationalism.  Ever since, there had been a growing sentiment in favour of a distinct Canadian citizenship. Months before, upon introducing the Bill creating a distinct Canadian citizenship – the first for the British Commonwealth, the cabinet minister responsible, Paul Martin Sr., said the following in the House of Commons.

“For the national unity of Canada and for the future and greatness of this country it is felt to be of utmost importance that all of us, new Canadians or old, have a consciousness of a common purpose and common interests as Canadians; that all of us are able to say with pride and say with meaning: ‘I am a Canadian citizen’.”