Stockbridge — An estimated 19 immigrants to the Berkshire County area had their American dreams come true as they were sworn in at a naturalization ceremony on Tuesday, October 10.
The ceremony was co-sponsored by the Berkshire Immigrant Center and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and was attended by immigrants, their families, and friends.
One of the naturalized immigrants was Ivan Teixeira, from Cabo Verde in Africa. “I feel so happy,” Teixeira said. “It took me four years to complete this process. My American dream has come true.”
“It is a privilege and an honor to become an American citizen,” said Shixi Chen, from mainland China.
Christopher Flores, from Sonora, Mexico, said that he had looked forward to becoming a naturalized citizen for many years. “I love America because this country has adopted me and has given me a home,” Flores said. “I’ve spent most of my life here and I have made many friendships here. My loved ones have all been here for me.”
Wendy Del Mul, an immigrant from Canada, called her immigration experience “a meaningful journey.” She went on, “To have that journeys culminate in such a beautiful place is something that is very special. My husband Paul is American. This is something that we both have been looking forward to for a very long time.”
“Today marks the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication,” Canavan said. “Each of you has embraced the ideals and the values that define this nation: freedom, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. As we gather here, we are reminded of the remarkable diversity that defines our country. The United States has always been a land of immigrants, a melting pot where people from all corners of the world come together to build a better future. And today you join that legacy [by] becoming an integral part of the American story. As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, I encourage you never to forget the journey that brought you here. Hold on to your unique cultural identities and heritage for they are a source of strength and richness that you bring to this nation. Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and seize the chance to make a positive impact on your communities, your fellow citizens, and the world.”
For more information about The Berkshire Immigrant Center, visit its website.
