Naturalization Ceremony — The Dede & B.V. Team

Welcome Immigrants!

If you have never attended a Naturalization Ceremony you will want to add it to your Bucket List. The National Park Service and the US Citizenship and Immigration Service work together to enhance citizenship ceremonies by holding them in national parks throughout the country. Since 1997 this ceremony has been held annually on the grounds of historic Snee Farm, which was once owned by Charles Pinckney, signer of the U. S. Constitution. Services are also held at the Customs House and Middleton Plantation. The Daughters of the American Revolution, Rebecca Motte Chapter provide refreshments for the ceremony at Charles Pinckney so that is the one I participate in.

I felt overwhelmed at my first event to hear all the different countries that were represented. This year the 22nd service was similar as there were 128 candidates from 48 different countries. They introduce themselves and their country of origin, pledge their allegiance and support to the U.S. and are awarded a certificate. It is an extremely moving event. The pride and earnestness are palpable through the crowd. In todays climate of political debate about immigration it is encouraging to see the promise of those who have worked their way into our country. I can bet you that ALL know more about civics than we do!

The presider is always a Federal judge. I have heard many extraordinary and meaningful stories told about their own special experience with immigration. Taking a handkerchief is advisable. These events are free and open to the public. It’s a great way to feel renewed pride in our country!