US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service on 25th August by welcoming 450 new US citizens at 16 naturalization ceremonies held at national parks across the country.
“As we celebrate the 100th birthday of our National Park Service on 25th August, 450 new Americans will also celebrate the fulfilment of their dreams of citizenship at some of our nation’s most historic sites,” said USCIS Director León Rodríguez. “At USCIS, we believe that being an American means understanding and honouring our history and the places the National Park Service is charged to protect. We look forward to continuing to welcome new US citizens and protecting ‘America’s Best Idea’ for the next 100 years.”
The upcoming ceremonies are a large step towards USCIS’ goal of holding at least 100 naturalisation ceremonies in national parks throughout this centennial year.
“It is especially meaningful to celebrate our 100th birthday with a series of naturalisation ceremonies in national parks throughout the country,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “National parks tell the stories of notable people, great achievements, and monumental events that shaped our nation, our government, and our society. These magnificent places belong to all Americans and we invite everyone, especially our newest citizens, to Find Your Park.”
America’s national parks provide an ideal setting for learning about the United States. Prospective citizens studying for the naturalisation test can find answers to test questions such as “Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?” and “Name one problem that led to the Civil War” and “Name one US territory”, by visiting a national park.
Venues that naturalization ceremonies on 25th August will be held at include the Grand Canyon National Park, Biscayne National Park, Fort Smith National Historic Site, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park and Big Thicket National Preserve.
The 16 ceremonies will bring the number of naturalization ceremonies held in national parks so far this year to 78.
Article published 24th August 2016