By Gage Vieno
Reporter Fellow
Approximately 200 immigrants from around the world took the Oath of Allegiance and officially became citizens of the United States during a naturalization ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum last Tuesday (June 8).
The ceremony, which took place in the library’s Stephen Smith Room, was presided over by Federal Judge Paul Levenson of the United States District Court for Massachusetts. Citizenship candidates were presented to the court by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Naturalization ceremonies are a longstanding tradition at the JFK Library, whose namesake president was the descendant of Irish immigrants. The event comes at a time when immigration remains a central topic in national political debate, making the occasion particularly significant for the hundreds of individuals who have completed the process to become American citizens.
Christel Precourt, originally from Germany and now a resident of Norton, Mass., said she had lived in the United States for more than 50 years before pursuing citizenship. She estimated the process took about eight months from start to finish.
“It actually feels better than I expected,” Precourt said, adding that she was “pretty proud” of herself.
New citizens represented a wide range of cultures, backgrounds, and over 50 origin countries. Following the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, participants received certificates of naturalization.
Emanuel Ferreira, a resident of Westport originally from Portugal, said completing the process required commitment and preparation.
“[The process] is dedicated, you’ve got to start it and understand all of the rules,” he said. Receiving his citizenship represented a major accomplishment. “It’s a big thing,” he said. “A big victory.”
