The federal government’s cancellation of U.S. naturalization ceremonies in multiple New York counties is drawing criticism, even from some Republicans in the state.
Federal officials indefinitely canceled an upcoming U.S. naturalization ceremony in Binghamton, leaving dozens of families in limbo ahead of taking their much-anticipated oaths of allegiance to become U.S. citizens, Mayor Jared Kraham said.
“Now that the government shutdown is over, I’m calling on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to work quickly to reschedule our community’s naturalization ceremony,” said Kraham, adding that “any further delay means playing politics with people’s lives.”
The Republican added in his statement that “the Trump administration’s handling of immigration matters continues to raise concerns.”
Also, Rep. Mike Lawler last week sent a letter to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding the cancellation of naturalization ceremonies in Rockland and Westchester counties. He said his wife immigrated to the U.S., and attending a naturalization ceremony marked one of the happiest days of their lives.
“Stealing that same joy from other to-be-citizens is wrong, plain and simple,” the congressman wrote.
Kraham said the cancellation of this month’s ceremony robbed individuals of a patriotic experience that completes their American citizenship. He said he’s participated in numerous local naturalization ceremonies.
“They are a snapshot of America at its best – moving displays of patriotism, the pursuit of a better life, and the defining diversity that makes us stronger as a country,” he said.
Lawler said he spoke with USCIS leadership and was optimistic about a timely reversal that will restore naturalization ceremonies to Rockland and Westchester counties.
