Dreams of Citizenship Realized at City Hall
Those born in the United States are granted automatic citizenship. But many more have to earn it. At a Naturalization ceremony on Friday, many in attendance have been waiting their entire lives for citizenship. They sit. They wait. They listen. They smile. Until the moment finally arrives.
On Friday 65 men and women took the oath…and became American citizens. All corners of the globe are represented. One by one they stood up, to declare their country of origin, just moments before they can officially call America home.
Here in Panama City, this is only the 15th naturalization ceremony since 2008, and they usually occur every 2 to 3 months.
After the ceremony, these brand new citizens were already beaming with American pride.
One new citizen, Klite Sheppard, finally got her citizenship after living in Panama City for 38 years. She said after all those years, this day meant a lot to her.
Another new citizen, Vadamir Smoliakov, celebrated his birthday on the same day as his citizenship.
Some were eager to make use of their new power right away. Perlo Marina Bello Crosby wants to start an organization to help the Hispanic communities in Florida. She wants to provide a place where people of Hispanic descent can learn English and assimilate into the U.S.A.
For her, and everyone else at the ceremony, the American dream is now even more of a reality. Many of the new citizens said they’re most looking forward to voting privileges. They’re happy to finally be able to take part in the democratic process.