DALLAS (1080 KRLD) - Thirty-five people from 17 countries became United States citizens Tuesday at UNT Dallas.
"Each and every one of you, I know you will make the United States better. You already have because of your contributions, the things you will do," says UNT System Chancellor Michael Williams. "I believe also the United States has a culture of values. They're values and behaviors that define our country and who we are. We're not perfect, but it's a great place to live."
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services read each person's name and their country of origin during the ceremony.
"Your path to citizenship has been completed, but your journey as Americans has just begun," says USCIS Dallas District Director Tony Bryson.
"Once you arrive here, you work hard, pay your taxes, stay out of crime, be a good citizen, right?" says Ludwin Guardado, who moved from El Salvador. "But you are not officially until this moment."
Guardado says he has learned American history and how the government works as he has worked toward citizenship. He says he was getting emotional when his name was announced.
"Exciting, nervous, just a bundle of emotions," he says.
The League of Women Voters was registering the new citizens to vote. They were not eligible to vote Tuesday but will be able to participate in the next election.
"I don't think people realize how fortunate they are, the rights they have, the opportunities they have," one woman who moved from Mexico says. "There are a lot of people who don't have that, who have to work twice as hard to get them. Just like the right to vote, for your voice to be heard."
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up and Follow NewsRadio 1080 KRLD