As the United States readies to celebrate its independence, the city of Mesa, Arizona is adding its own touch to the patriotic festivities. This Fourth of July, approximately 100 residents will culminate their journeys to citizenship in a naturalization ceremony. The event, part of the Arizona Celebration of Freedom, is set to unite the newcomers in allegiance to their adopted nation. According to the City of Mesa's press release, the ceremony hosted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) promises to be a landmark event in the annual celebration.
The naturalization ceremony, a tradition since 2015, will occur at the Mesa Convention Center and commence at 5 p.m. USCIS Phoenix Field Office Section Chief Cynthia Yanez is set to preside over the event, administering the Oath of Allegiance. Mayor John Giles and Councilmember Jenn Duff are slated to participate, indicating the civic importance of the induction of new Americans. In a statement obtained by City of Mesa, Walt Zimmerman of the Sertoma Club—a local service organization that spearheaded the initiative to include the ceremony—spoke to the inclusivity the event embodies.
The Sertoma Club, instrumental in the incorporation of the ceremony into the day's events, has been a persistent advocate for community service since its inception in 1954. It's their engagement with the community that drives initiatives like the Hall of Flags display and the distribution of pocket-size copies of the U.S. Constitution—donated by Hillsdale College—aiming to educate and inspire a reverence for democratic principles. Event attendees also get the chance to interact with aspects of U.S. history and civic understanding, such as signing replicas of the Declaration of Independence and reviewing the civics test questions given to citizenship applicants.
While the naturalization ceremony represents a solemn commitment, the Arizona Celebration of Freedom itself promises a festive atmosphere. Taking place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the same venue, revelers will be treated to live music, family-friendly games, and a range of exhibitions like a BMX stunt show, as detailed by City of Mesa.
