New Hume citizens welcomed

Published on 26 January 2022

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Hume City Council welcomed 89 new citizens at a special online citizenship ceremony today.

The 89 residents from more than 17 countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Britain, India, Iraq, Lebanon, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Somalia, Syria, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey, Vietnam and the United States of America became Australian citizens following in the footsteps of more than five million migrants who have taken the pledge since Australian citizenship was introduced into law 73 years ago. 

The ceremony commenced with a Welcome to Country by Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Elder Aunty Georgina.

At the ceremony, the new citizens were encouraged to celebrate their own unique histories, traditions and experiences which enrich the nations cultural story that began more than 65,000 years ago. 

Hume City Council Mayor, Councillor Carly Moore said:  

“In Hume, we embrace the many languages and cultures that combine to form our community and it is always a privilege to welcome new Australian citizens at our citizenship ceremonies.

“We are all lucky to live in this great country, and to be a part of the story of Australia.

“Hume is a city of great cultural diversity and we are a leading example of a multicultural community coming together to celebrate what makes us different yet what brings us together as Australians.

“Hume City Council through the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2020-22 and the Recognition Policy is committed to truth-telling, acknowledging the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and communities and walking together towards reconciliation.

“We acknowledge that January 26 is not a day of celebration for all people in our community.

“Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience pain, sadness, feelings of loss and disconnection on this day.”