New Citizens Take Oath of Allegiance: A Look at November’s Naturalization Ceremony

The day was filled with joy and pride for forty-six individuals and their families from different backgrounds and cultures. Orange County Clerk Kelly Eskew administered the Oath of Allegiance, the final part of the naturalization process, renouncing all foreign allegiance while pledging to support and defend the American Constitution and the laws of the United States. Once completed, each one of them officially becomes a citizen of the United States.

"Each ceremony is truly a humbling experience, and one of my favorite parts about being the Orange County Clerk," said Eskew, who has sworn in over one thousand new citizens through the years. "I want to extend a heartfelt congratulation to all the new citizens. I am honored to be a part of your journey towards the American dream."

This ceremony had twenty-five countries represented, with the highest being nine from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

The County Clerk's Office hosts several naturalization ceremonies each year in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security (Citizenship and Immigration Services).

"Being a part of the County's naturalization ceremonies is always a wonderful experience," said Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus. "To be and speak with these people while witnessing their pride and excitement as they complete their journey to become Americans is quite an honor. I wish them all the best of luck."

Orange County Family Court Judge Victoria Campbell presided over the ceremony, and Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta read the pledge of allegiance.

For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.291.2700 or [email protected].

To learn more about what County Executive Neuhaus is doing for Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on Facebook, @Orange County NY Govt and @steve.neuhaus on Instagram, and @OCGovNY and @SNeuhausOC on X. You can also watch Neuhaus' NeuCast podcasts and Leadership Speaker Series on YouTube.

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