Coming to America

Written by Jen

Blog

With all the talk lately about illegal immigration, it's easy to overlook those who follow the prescribed steps to attain legitimate U.S. citizenship. Though the near nightmare in Times Square enhances the wariness of an already prickly population, the vast majority of those who seek refuge in our country do it for one reason: freedom. They yearn for it because they have lived without it.

I was honored to witness the naturalization ceremony of 77 individuals from 30-plus countries last week. Some smiled broadly as they took the oath of allegiance, while others stood poker straight, their faces determined as they gazed toward the unfurled flag. Some wore their native garb, while others were fully westernized in slacks, suits and ties. Amid a sea of red, white and blue, I felt out of place in pink. (What was I thinking?)

We who were born in this country often don't appreciate the rights and privileges afforded to us as citizens. Not so with these folks. Each was handed a microphone and asked to state his or her name and country of origin...Nigeria, Mauritania, Iran, Senegal, Mexico. ..Some spoke softly in broken English. Others enthusiastically added remarks about the excitement of becoming an American.

The older gentleman beside me kept snapping photos and nodding at a young blonde-haired woman in the row beside us. He sat on the edge of his chair. Occasionally she would wave sheepishly and smile nervously in his direction. I wondered about their story.

After the speeches and the oath and the pledge, each new citizen queued up and received a Certificate of Naturalization. Their reactions were universal. Gazing at the paper proof of citizenship, they smiled broadly. Family and friends came forward to congratulate them and pose for photos.

Because I'm in the habit of striking up conversations with total strangers--and because I couldn't stand it anymore--I asked the man beside me if he was here to support a friend. "My daughter-in-law," he said proudly. "She is from Russia," he added, then explained how she and his son had lived in several countries and she longed for the freedom to move around as she pleased. Having a U.S. passport and the ability to return here and call this country home was their dream. I wanted to hug her and every one of our new citizens. (Heck, I would've hugged him if he hadn't walked away.)

Thankfully, I restrained myself and opted for a smile and a"Congratulations," on the way out the door. Next time I'll definitely wear red, white and blue.