The United States Gains 55 New Citizens
By: Morgan Moore
Updated: March 14, 2013
The U.S. population just got a little bigger all from right here in the Wabash Valley.
Indiana State University hosted a naturalization ceremony on Thursday, where dozens came from as far as Russia and as close as Mexico, all with one goal in mind.
"It is my honor and privilege to move that the court now administer to these petitioners of the oath of United State citizenship," said Todd Shellenbarger, Assistant U.S. Attorney.
The United States of America is often called a melting pot - and these 55 people are proud to add themselves to the mix.
"It's a unique experience of a lifetime so I am blessed to have this opportunity," said new citizen Sonila Zajmi.
Sonila Zajmi was born in Albania and came to the U.S. to further her education.
While studying at Indiana University, she realized this was more than just her four year home, and she wanted to make an impact on America.
"That's the biggest accomplishment, because I want to give my vote," said Zajmi. "It's my duty as a citizen to contribute to the country," said Zajmi.
From young children to a 72-year-old man, this ceremony marked the end of a long journey.
And the oath? The start of something new.
"It's a wonderful experience to come from a different country and become an American citizen," said Zajmi
And celebrate the red, white and blue today...and always.
"I have a new identity now and I have become an American citizen. I am part of this country, of the Constitution and I enjoy equal rights as every other American," said Zajmi.
As part of their swearing-in, the new citizens had to take the Oath of U.S. Citizenship, which requires them to renounce allegiance to their native countries.
Indiana State University hosted a naturalization ceremony on Thursday, where dozens came from as far as Russia and as close as Mexico, all with one goal in mind.
"It is my honor and privilege to move that the court now administer to these petitioners of the oath of United State citizenship," said Todd Shellenbarger, Assistant U.S. Attorney.
The United States of America is often called a melting pot - and these 55 people are proud to add themselves to the mix.
"It's a unique experience of a lifetime so I am blessed to have this opportunity," said new citizen Sonila Zajmi.
Sonila Zajmi was born in Albania and came to the U.S. to further her education.
While studying at Indiana University, she realized this was more than just her four year home, and she wanted to make an impact on America.
"That's the biggest accomplishment, because I want to give my vote," said Zajmi. "It's my duty as a citizen to contribute to the country," said Zajmi.
From young children to a 72-year-old man, this ceremony marked the end of a long journey.
And the oath? The start of something new.
"It's a wonderful experience to come from a different country and become an American citizen," said Zajmi
And celebrate the red, white and blue today...and always.
"I have a new identity now and I have become an American citizen. I am part of this country, of the Constitution and I enjoy equal rights as every other American," said Zajmi.
As part of their swearing-in, the new citizens had to take the Oath of U.S. Citizenship, which requires them to renounce allegiance to their native countries.
