Some escaped violence, while others found love, pursued educational opportunities, or began new careers.
Nearly 820,000 people pledged allegiance to the United States and became naturalized citizens in 2024.
Renouncing allegiance to any foreign power, they promised to support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, taking up arms if required by law.
Some of the most recent newcomers were welcomed in naturalization ceremonies in Indianapolis and South Bend, Indiana, on June 26 and June 27.
Those 148 new Americans hailed from 44 countries and ranged in age from 18 to 71. They were drawn to the United States for numerous reasons.
What drew them? For some, it was an opportunity for education, employment, or simply to make their own way in the world.
A surprising number were drawn by the heart. They had fallen in love with an American or wanted to be reunited with a daughter or mother or family.
And some came as refugees. They arrived here hoping to escape war-torn countries or oppressive governments.
Nearly all defaulted to a single word in describing what America means to them: Freedom.
Freedom
Immigrants come to the United States from nearly every part of the world, including war-ravaged countries, where daily life is punctuated by violence.
Aime Mbazumutima, 33, came to the United States nine years ago to escape the violence in his homeland, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There, he said, there was “fighting every day.”
“It’s a great achievement,” he said about receiving citizenship. “It is my dream come true.”
Tulang Za Thai, 19, came to the United States from Burma (also known as Myanmar), where a civil war is ongoing, in search of a better life. His journey to American citizenship was motivated by “opportunities and freedom,” he said.
For Quoc Dimh, 26, of Vietnam, freedom means freedom of speech, something he did not have in his communist home country.
U.S. District Court Judge James R. Sweeney II spoke enthusiastically about the contribution that naturalized citizens make to the county.
“Each of you has a different story but your shared love of freedom, liberty, and equality has brought you together to this place,” Sweeney told the new citizens in Indianapolis.
In a 2006 address to the nation, Bush said, “The success of our country depends upon helping newcomers assimilate into our society, and embrace our common identity as Americans.”
To qualify for naturalized citizenship, a person must be 18 or older, a lawful permanent resident for five years (or three years if married to a citizen), be physically present in the country for the preceding 30 months, live in their state of residence for three months, pass a civics test, and be able to read, write, and speak English.
Minor children of citizens may already qualify.
