From the heart of SALT LAKE CITY — A diverse group of nearly 150 individuals, originating from over 50 different nations, gathered at the Salt Lake City Public Library on Wednesday. They were there to participate in the citizenship oath ceremonies and to receive their certificates of naturalization, a significant milestone in their journey to becoming U.S. citizens.
As the attendees settled into the library’s auditorium, the ceremony’s organizers wasted no time in emphasizing the rights that come with their new citizenship status. They particularly underscored the right to vote in local and federal elections — a freedom that many of the participants had never experienced before.
“The United States is defined by its people, and that includes each and every one of you,” Salt Lake County Clerk Lannie Chapman addressed the soon-to-be citizens. Chapman elaborated on the pride that Americans feel when they cast their votes and how our representative democracy depends on a diverse and engaged citizenry to elect its leaders.
“Representation, participation, and accountable government are not just buzz words — they are the pillars of our democracy,” Chapman emphasized.
At the ceremony, the new citizens were provided with resources such as voter registration forms and the chance to connect with advocacy groups like the League of Women Voters. Chapman urged the audience to stay informed about local, state, and federal politics and to exercise their right to vote.
Speaking on behalf of the Salt Lake County Clerk’s Office, Chapman added, “As your county clerk, I am dedicated to ensuring that every voter in Salt Lake City has a voice in shaping our government — everyone deserves to be heard in our community.”
Lorena Riffo-Jenson, Salt Lake City’s director of economic development, shared her personal journey as a naturalized U.S. citizen. Despite the challenges, she expressed immense pride in becoming a U.S. citizen in 1993 after fleeing from an oppressive dictatorship in Chile in 1973.
“Becoming a citizen of a country founded on the principles of liberty and justice for all brought me immense joy,” Riffo-Jenson shared. She expressed her gratitude for the freedom to express diverse views and opinions in the U.S., unlike the oppressive government her family escaped from in Chile. She emphasized that these differences in opinion are crucial for building a progressive society.
“You represent what the United States of America stands for — a beautiful mosaic of people with diverse stories and backgrounds, immigrants who choose to contribute to this incredible country. Your resilience, hard work, and unique perspectives are needed to continue shaping the history of the United States of America and to keep the beacon of hope alive for many around the world.”
– Lorena Riffo-Jenson, Salt Lake City’s director of economic development
Riffo-Jenson urged the new citizens to exercise their newfound privilege and make their voices heard in their new community. She encouraged them to set an example for their home countries by actively participating in their new government, in honor of those who don’t have the same opportunity.
Before the distribution of the naturalization certificates, the new citizens were given a chance to share their personal journeys and what this occasion meant to them and their families. One woman, who wished to remain anonymous, stood up to share her feelings about the day’s ceremony.
“Our journey has been long and challenging, but today my daughter has become a U.S. citizen, and that means we can stay together in this wonderful country,” said the woman, overcome with emotion. “I am deeply grateful for this journey to come to an end and a new one to begin — this is the last bastion of freedom like no other, and I am profoundly grateful for that.”
Agree: Incredible moment of unity and diversity! A shining example of the American dream coming true. #proudtobeanAmerican