Thirty-four people from 26 countries officially became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony at the Strand Theatre in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana. The celebration was part of the KTBS 3 Freedom Fest and the City of Shreveport’s America 250 event lineup, welcoming the nation’s newest citizens with patriotic music, speeches, and a reception attended by family members, friends, and community supporters.

Citizenship Candidates Share Their Stories

Before taking the Oath of Allegiance, the citizenship candidates gathered outside the theater, marking the final step in what many described as a years-long journey. New citizen Hallie Cryer said, “I didn’t believe that I would ever become an American. It’s amazing. Surreal. It’s a dream come true.” Community members also attended to welcome the new citizens, with Marshall resident Warren Johnson stating, “It seemed like it was a patriotic thing to do to come out in support for people who are becoming citizens. It feels like we have people that are joining the fray.”

The ceremony opened with a performance by the National WWII Museum’s Victory Belles before the candidates were called to the stage. KTBS 3 Station Manager George Sirven shared his experience of becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen more than 50 years ago, encouraging the new citizens to preserve their cultural traditions while embracing their new roles as Americans. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux welcomed the new citizens and encouraged them as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

For many, the ceremony represented the culmination of years of waiting. Hafid Chkhichekh said he spent 12 years working toward U.S. citizenship, while Mustafa Ersenergun described becoming a U.S. citizen as a milestone he will never forget. Elisabeth Fatilla said becoming a citizen gives her more opportunities to contribute to her community.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.