Tucson, Arizona (KVOA) – “What could be more patriotic than becoming a U.S. citizen in a national park on July 4th?” asked Pima County Recorder Cazares Kelly.
“Become a U.S. citizen in a national park and register to vote on July 4th!” she enthused.
Twenty-two people became U.S. citizens today in a special ceremony at Saguaro National Park in the Tucson Mountains region.
Twenty-two people became U.S. citizens today in a special ceremony at Saguaro National Park in the Tucson Mountains region.
Citizenship was granted to immigrants from eight countries, including France, Iraq, Panama, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Vietnam and the United Kingdom.
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“The words of the Declaration of Independence have long been a beacon of hope and opportunity for many in this country,” said Saguaro National Park Acting Administrator Jeff Conn, welcoming the new residents. “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” It is important never to take these words and rights for granted. ”
He continued, “These national park units are where we’ve been, what we’ve sacrificed to get here, and how our values have evolved. , and a collective expression of our commitment to tell the stories yet to be told.”
Justice Bruce G. Macdonald, who presided over the naturalization ceremony, spoke about what citizenship means to him.
“Freedom and liberty come to mind to me, but with that freedom comes opportunity. chance.”
The National Park Service and Immigration and Immigration have formed a partnership to help promote citizenship ceremonies by hosting them in national parks across the country.
“We will introduce new Americans to some of the nation’s most spectacular natural and cultural resource locations. These historic and picturesque locations provide the ideal backdrop for civilization ceremonies. and allows new citizens to learn and reflect on the responsibilities of American identity and citizenship,” said Cam Juárez, Saguaro National Park Community Activities Coordinator.
