On March 13th, 2024, at 2 pm, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia, Statesboro Division, hosted a Naturalization Ceremony. These events, significant civic milestones, are open to the public and celebrate new citizenship. Last Wednesday's ceremony was notably historic for Bulloch County, marking the first Naturalization Ceremony in over 40 years and the first in the current federal courthouse.
Grice Connect had the honor of witnessing what is considered one of the most meaningful events hosted by US District Courts across the country.
The atmosphere of excitement and anticipation was evident upon arrival at the courtroom. Candidates for citizenship sat attentively, eagerly conversing amongst themselves. Family members, friends, and key community figures were present, including representatives from the Bulloch County Bar Association, Daughters of the American Revolution Archibald Bulloch Chapter, Statesboro Rotary Club, Downtown Rotary Club of Statesboro, Statesboro Service League, Statesboro Herald, and Grice Connect. Distinguished guests included Statesboro City Manager Charles Penny, Congressman Rick Allen (represented by District Director Brinsley Thrash Thigpen), Director of the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority Mr. Allen Muldrew, accompanied by Elena McLendon, and Judge Mike Muldrew.
The ceremony began with Mr. Jason Lewis, court security officer, officially opening the court and extending a warm welcome to all attendees. He then introduced the Honorable J. Randal Hall, who commenced the proceedings. In his opening remarks, Chief United States District Judge, J. Randal Hall, stated, “There is no honor greater than presiding over an oath of citizenship since citizenship is our most precious national possession.” He congratulated the candidates on their journey to citizenship, recognizing the extensive and sometimes difficult process they had completed.
Following the welcome, Judge Hall invited Mr. Brian Mercer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to lead the Presentation of Petitions and Motion for Admission. As countries of origin were called, the respective candidates stood in acknowledgment.
“Your honor, I present to you the 41 candidates that applied for citizenship to the United States,” Mercer declared, signaling towards the group of future citizens. The candidates then collectively recited the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mr. Lewis.
In his address to the new citizens, Judge Hall remarked, “It is truly an honor to celebrate this special day with you. Each of you is now a part of the Great American Story. You and your families have diverse backgrounds and various reasons why you chose to join this nation. You should never stop telling the story of your background and your reasons for immigrating. Do not be afraid to celebrate your native culture and faiths. Your story, and the stories of all other immigrants, make our country richer and stronger, and will benefit future generations. Just remember that despite our diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas, we are all bound together by our love for America and a better life in this very special place.”
He continued, emphasizing civic engagement, “Before we finish this ceremony and you leave this courthouse to renew your lives, now as citizens, I want to tell you what I believe every citizen, whether native born or naturalized, needs to do to make this a better country: Continue to learn, and that includes staying informed on civics and other issues, find trustworthy sources, and read and follow them regularly. Remain cautious of the noise and distractions of social media. Be an active participant in your government.
For some, that may mean running for office or helping others that do. I realize that seeking an elective office can be a daunting task, however, our nation will not survive if good people refuse to step forward and offer themselves for public service. If public service is not for you, then become involved in your neighborhoods, your communities, your schools, your houses of faith. There are always projects and needs that are waiting for the right person to volunteer. That right person may be you. The seeds that each of you plant today and in the years ahead will impact those that follow us. And finally, vote. You have earned that special privilege today. No matter how small the election, always faithfully cast your vote.”
Mrs. Lisa Widener, Courtroom Deputy Clerk, concluded the official proceedings by leading the new citizens through the Oath of Allegiance. The event ended on a high note, with the new citizens being warmly congratulated by all present. They were then awarded their certificates of citizenship, marking the end of their journey to becoming American citizens. The ceremony showcased a diverse array of countries, underscoring the rich multicultural fabric of the United States.
The courtroom was filled with emotion as the ceremony adjourned, with candidates and their supporters sharing hugs and tears, and capturing the moment with photographs. Grice Connect spoke with several of the new citizens, who shared their experiences and aspirations. Here are the stories from just two:
Bevelin Lim Ooi (pictured with family below), moved to Swainsboro from Singapore 16 years ago, back in 2008. She expressed her desire to become a citizen early on, and shared of the dedication and commitment it’s taken to make this dream a reality.
She shares she came wanting to create a better life for her family, “I am just grateful for family. We have each other and that’s all we can ask for. Being here today, with them, it is truly a great privilege. We are so grateful.”
Yuliia Iudin (pictured with family below) is originally from Ukraine and moved to the United States 12 years ago. She said living in America has been a dream for her because it’s brought her family, friends, and purpose through service.
“12 years ago when I moved here, I was just starting off," she said. "I had my 4 beautiful children here in this country; I have found a partner, created a family, and now through serving in the military, I am able to gain citizenship to this beautiful country. I am simply blessed by my new life here, and I am looking forward to my future.”
The Naturalization Ceremony in Bulloch County marks a significant milestone, celebrating 41 individuals who have officially become citizens of the United States. This historic event underscores the value of citizenship and the varied paths to achieving it.
Congratulations to the newest citizens, whose perseverance enriches the community and country, and may all citizens feel encouraged by Judge Hall's call to action: engage in community life, stay informed, and participate actively in the democratic process. Such engagement is essential for the continued strength and vitality of the nation.