IRMO, S.C. — A Day to Remember for New Citizens
It was an incredibly important day for 29 individuals who took a significant step toward fulfilling their American Dreams on a beautiful Friday morning in Irmo, South Carolina. A federal judge officially welcomed these new citizens into the fold, marking a moment of joy and celebration for families who have waited years for this milestone. The excitement in the air was palpable as each individual stood with pride, ready to claim their new identity as citizens of the United States.
Living the Dream
For many, the path to citizenship is filled with challenges and determination. Jens Wolf Zschoche, who hails from Germany, expressed his overwhelming feelings of accomplishment: “You could never dream of living in America or getting citizenship in America. For me, it’s a dream come true.” His journey is a testament to perseverance, having navigated significant changes in Europe before making his way to the U.S. in 2007. “I lived in East Germany in 1989, the wall came down, and then I moved to West Germany. In 2007, I came over with a German company and really liked it. This is where I decided to stay for good,” Zschoche shared with a smile, reflecting on the major transitions in his life.
Another new citizen, Mabel Almanzar from the Dominican Republic, also celebrated her new status with an immense sense of achievement. She explained, “This is an achievement. I think becoming a citizen is a dream that every immigrant that comes to this country has and to feel more a part of this country.” Mabel reached an extra special milestone, stating, “I feel extremely happy because besides being a part of this country, it’s also for my son. Now that I’m a citizen, my son is one too, he’s 14. It’s something that’s really important for my family and me.” The joy was evident on her face as she spoke about the brighter future that now awaits her family.
A Ceremonial Shift
In a departure from the usual courtrooms where citizenship ceremonies typically take place, the event was held at Irmo Elementary School. Judges and lawyers orchestrated this occasion as an opportunity to educate young students on the importance of citizenship and the rule of law. Derek Shoemake from the John Belton O’Neal American Inn of Court noted, “How important it is that we have laws in our country, so sort of, what better place to have these people who did it all the right way, worked so hard to become American citizens. What better place to honor them than in an elementary school where we’re teaching these young kids what it means to be an American.” This creative approach allowed students to witness firsthand the immense significance of becoming a U.S. citizen.
From All Over the World
The newly minted citizens represent a diverse mix of cultures and backgrounds, as they come from almost 20 different countries, including Colombia, India, Germany, and Thailand. Each individual’s backstory is unique, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of life in America. Their stories of resilience are bound by the shared hope for a better life, not only for themselves but also for their families and future generations.
An Inspiring Future
As the new citizens took their oath of allegiance, a wave of emotions washed over them, filled with gratitude for the opportunities ahead. The day was more than just a ceremony; it was a reflection of dreams realized and the promise of new beginnings. The collective energy of happiness and achievement resonated through the crowd, marking a significant moment of triumph for all involved.
There’s no doubt that this special day will remain etched in the memories of these new citizens, their families, and the students of Irmo Elementary School. It was a celebration of courage, hard work, and the undeniable spirit that drives people to seek out their American Dream.
