Congressman Kiley congratulates new U.S. citizens at naturalization ceremony in Roseville

Congressman Kevin Kiley congratulated more than 1,200 new U.S. citizens on June 28 to celebrate the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) annual Independence Day-themed Naturalization Ceremony at @theGrounds in Roseville. USCIS helps many immigrants obtain citizenship status with resources on its website and at various field offices. To view nearby field offices, visit uscis.gov/about-us/find-a-uscis-office/field-offices. Their naturalization ceremonies bring members of the community together to witness immigrants becoming U.S. citizens. Two ceremonies were held June 28, the first comprising 800 new citizens and the second with 421. In total, 74 countries were represented at the first ceremony. Afghanistan comprised about 21 percent of the new citizens, Albania made up about 13 percent, and Algeria comprised of about 12 percent, according to USCIS. In the second ceremony, Mexico made up about 16 percent of the new citizens, the Philippines comprised 15 percent of new citizens, and India made up about 14 percent, according to USCIS. The ceremony began with the Presentation of Colors by the 9th Force Support Squadron stationed at Beale Air Force Base. The national anthem followed. USCIS Sacramento Field Office Director Rebecca Sheehy welcomed everyone to the ceremony. "Shining like the Statue of Liberty's torch, America is a beacon for those who seek refuge. Like that torch, America has always held itself out to the world as a land of opportunity and a symbol of freedom, democracy and justice. Each of you has traveled a separate, individual path, guided by that torch, that has led you here today," Sheehy said. "I would like to congratulate you as you fulfill the promise of your own American dream and encourage you to keep the torch burning bright for others who are forging their own paths." Sheehy administered the Oath of Allegiance to signify U.S. citizenship following informative videos about the U.S. and voting. The new citizens were given their certificates of citizenship following the ceremony. Congressman Kiley congratulated the new citizens after the oath, saying, "As new citizens, you can remind all of us of the commitments we share – to our flag, to our Constitution, to the self-evident truths that all men and women are created equal, and are endowed by their creator with the inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." The ceremony was special to those attending. Even more special was many got to share it with their families. Many brought their children as well, who also gained citizenship alongside their parents. Everyone shared cheers, hugs and even shed tears.