Dozens of immigrants gathered at Chatham-Kent's Capitol Theatre to be sworn in as Canadian citizens.
Forty people received their Canadian citizenship at the ceremony, which was held Wednesday morning.
Many of the new citizens, who came from countries all over the world, shared their experiences.
"Whenever I go across the border, you just feel relieved and safe when you come back home," said a woman from Saginaw, Michigan, who was sworn as a Canadian citizen at the ceremony.
"It's like a proud moment for us. From a different country to a different country, it's something new for us. My parents always wanted me to become a Canadian citizen... it's like a special moment," said a woman from Nepal, who also received her Canadian citizenship at the ceremony.
In celebration of Canada's 150th birthday, the new citizens were offered free admission to Canadian parks.
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