Lawrenceville, GA — Today, Rep. McBath welcomed 150 new U.S. citizens as the keynote speaker at a special Independence Day naturalization ceremony at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The ceremony was the culmination of the naturalization process administered by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Candidates for naturalization came from 50 different countries. Reported by Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath welcomed the new citizens into a new phase of their lives, noting that July 2 marks the day the Continental Congress formally voted for America’s independence in 1776.” 

Pictured above: McBath delivers keynote address during naturalization ceremony

  

Pictured above: McBath addresses new citizens

  

Pictured above: McBath joins new American citizens in reciting the pledge

“From the first days of our nation, immigrants made vital contributions to the very foundation of our democracy,” Rep. McBath said. “It is essential that as we celebrate our nation’s Independence Day, we be reminded that no matter where you come from, no matter what your story is, America yearns for the contributions of all her people.”

According to USCIS, naturalization ceremonies “celebrate the conclusion of an immigrant’s journey to citizenship and honor the commitment they’ve shown along the way.” As a member of Congress, McBath’s office can assist prospective citizens with their naturalization process by liaising with immigration officials on their behalf. Any Seventh District resident in need of federal casework assistance of any kind is encouraged to visit mcbath.house.gov/help or call (470) 773-6330.