Canadian War Bride Citizenship problems, passports, identity

Home > Citizenship Troubles > Testimonials > Margaret Henry War Bride Daughter and her mother Joan, War Bride

My mother Joan Henry and her baby boy came to Canada in September 1946, sailing on the Queen Mary with a boatful of warbrides, their children - and Mackenzie King.

She remembers very well that on the last day of a rough voyage they were all gathered to hear the Prime Minister speak. He told them, "You are all Canadians now."

Mum, now 87, was outraged two days ago by a story on The National about the son of a Canadian serviceman who is having trouble getting citizenship. She has been on the phone ever since - to her MP, Immigration Canada, Veterans Affairs, the Legion and so on. She has met with little courtesy from Veterans Affairs or Immigration but with interest and encouragement from The Legion, her MP ( John McKay) and the CBC.

Veterans Affairs staff said they didn't feel it was anything to do with them. CBC radio has expressed interest in interviewing her on Wednesday, May 3. My mother and brother both applied for and were granted citizenship in 1972. She was indignant then and feels it remains most unfair treatment of servicemen and women and their children. My dad served overseas for 5 years, was awarded the DFC and Bar. His two brothers also served in the RCAF for the duration of the war. His brother Doug also received the DFC and Bar and his brother Ralph was lost on active service. They came from a family of Canadian pioneers who had come to Canada in the 1820's. It seems a strange return for their patriotism and sacrifice.

I suggested to Mum that we see what other war brides were doing and we were pleased to see that you are actively challenging this very unfair treatment.

Thanks

Margaret Henry and her mother,War Bride ER Henry of Toronto, who have given their permission to use their names
May 2, 2005

Other things you can do RIGHT NOW!

Phone MP Andrew Telegdi, Chair of the Commons Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. http://www.telegdi.org/coordnts.htm
Phone and Write Helene Guergis http://www.helenaguergis.com/
Phone and write your MP
Phone and write the Senator who represents your area
Phone and write the Prime Minister