The Hillsboro Public Library was the setting of a landmark event last Thursday, welcoming 38 individuals from 23 different countries as they became new American citizens. The ceremony, a collaborative effort between the City of Hillsboro and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), marked a pivotal moment for the new citizens and their families and friends who gathered to celebrate.
According to a report by the City of Hillsboro, Library Director Tammy Wallin, offered poignant remarks, noting the personal connection she felt with the attendees. "More than a hundred years ago, my great-grandparents took their own oaths of citizenship, so it is an honor for me to welcome you today,” Wallin shared. In her speech, she also underscored the tapestry of immigrant narratives that have contributed to the city's rich cultural fabric.
Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway commended the new citizens for their hard-earned achievement. He highlighted the diverse backgrounds and stories of the group, recognizing their perseverance, determination, and resilience. "You each have a unique story; you each are on a unique journey. But today, one thing you all have in common is that your perseverance, your determination, and your resilience have led you to this moment. You are citizens of the United States of America," Mayor Callaway said in a message that resonated with attendees.
Margaret Rosenast, Director of the USCIS Portland Field Office presided over the Oath of Allegiance, breaking the news of their newly granted rights alongside the responsibilities they entail, "Congratulations on this accomplishment. You will have all the rights of citizenship, and responsibility that comes with it.” The sentiment of Rosenast's message was echoed by the crowd's celebratory mood, as families and friends congratulated their loved ones on this significant life event.
The naturalization ceremony at the Hillsboro Public Library not only provided a space for new beginnings but also served as a reminder of the ongoing narrative of immigration that weaves through the fabric of American society. It is an enduring story of individuals from across the world seeking to craft their own piece of the American dream.
