METHUEN — Sixty-six immigrants from across the globe came to Methuen yesterday to become U.S. citizens during an emotional and uplifting ceremony at the Nevins Memorial Library.
"We've waited for this day all our lives," said Mary Walsh, originally from Ireland after her and her husband Paddy both earned their U.S. citizenship. "I never thought I'd see today."
The couple, from Medway, has lived in the U.S. since 1989.
"We love this country. All of our family is here," said Paddy Walsh.
The library hall became a courtroom during the ceremony when the 66 citizenship candidates took an oath in front of Judge Leo T. Sorokin. Friends and family looked on, with their digital cameras flashing throughout the event.
It was the first time Methuen hosted a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services naturalization ceremony. The participants in the ceremony came from the Boston immigration office, though plans are in the works to open a citizenship and immigration office in the Merrimack Valley soon.
The library wanted to host the ceremony as part of its Methuen Reads program, a project to have the city read and discuss one novel. The selected book, "Digging to America," contains themes related to immigration and what it means to be an American, said Library Director Krista McLeod.
"We wanted to host this event as the centerpiece of (Methuen Reads) because you are what it means to be American — your story of hope and optimism," McLeod said during the ceremony. "We applaud your hard work, appreciate your struggles, and admire your efforts."
Also attending the ceremony were Congresswoman Niki Tsongas and Mayor William Manzi, who both told stories of their families path to citizenship.
"We are a melting pot but we honor the religion and cultures that are brought with you," Tsongas said. "Our country is enriched by all of your lives."
Miguel Escobar of Pelham, N.H., said earning citizenship was one of "the biggest" days of his life.
"Today is just a great day — a day I became an American citizen," said Escobar, a native of Columbia. "I'm becoming a citizen of a great country that has great values. I'm happy to support and be part of it."
Judge Sorokin reminded the new citizens about their new responsibilities including voting and serving on a jury.
"You have the responsibility to use the provision of citizenship wisely," Sorokin said.
Immigrants are eligible to apply for citizenship after living in the United States as a legal permanent resident for at least five years. The application process includes a series of interviews and tests. Immigrants are assessed for their moral character and commitment to upholding the U.S. constitution. They also have to pass a civics exam.
Bede Onyeagoro and his wife, Gloria, of Boston made their first trip to Methuen over the weekend to make sure they could find the library for the ceremony. Gloria Onyeagoro became a U.S. citizen yesterday.
"I'm very proud, she's been working so hard," said Bede Onyeagoro. The couple moved to Boston five years ago from Nigeria and have a 2-year-old daughter, Precious.
"I'm so grateful," said Gloria Onyeagoro, who has been working toward citizenship for six months. "I'm going to sleep well tonight."
Simon, 8, and 10-year-old Perry Kingoun proudly took turns taking pictures with their dad, Alex, after he became a U.S. citizen. Simon also led the crowd through the Pledge of Allegiance during the ceremony.
"I'm excited," said Alex Kingoun, a native of the Ukraine who lives with his family in Needham. "I'm happy for them. I think they'll remember this."
Other people earning citizenship came from Cambodia, Brazil, Armenia, Bulgaria, the Dominican Republic, Argentina and more.
"I love this country," said Alexandra Plazas, a native of Columbia, who earned citizenship after 14 years in the U.S. and lives in Boston. "It's a country of opportunity. If you work hard, play by the rules, you get somewhere."
