Khatijah Binti Mohamad Rafique of Chicago takes the oath of allegiance to become a U.S. citizen Thursday during a naturalization ceremony at the College of DuPage.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com
Faith and allegiance.
The words resounded through an auditorium at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn Thursday.
By reciting an oath of allegiance, with their right hands raised, 137 people from 38 other countries officially became U.S. citizens during a ceremony in the school's McAninch Arts Center.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer welcomed the new Americans.
"Their talents, perseverance, stories, and cultures make our nation stronger and more vibrant," Pallmeyer said.
"As we kick off Independence Day weekend, we urge our new citizens to get involved in our community and nation by voting, serving on juries when called upon, and volunteering."
U.S. District Judge John Kness administered the 140-word oath, the final step in the citizenship process.
Given small American flags and joined by family and friends, the new citizens pledged to support and defend the Constitution.
Adil Bozi of Arlington Heights recites the oath of allegiance as he becomes a U.S. citizen. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a naturalization ceremony Thursday at the College of DuPage.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com
New citizens cover their hearts as they recite the oath of allegiance Thursday at a naturalization ceremony in the McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com
U.S. District Judge John Kness administers the oath of allegiance for 137 new citizens from 38 other countries at the largest community college in Illinois.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois hosted a citizenship ceremony in the McAninch Arts Center Thursday at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn.
Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com