Óscar Gómez/Borderless MagazineNearly 150 people became United States citizens during a ceremony at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park last week.
After a long process of paperwork, studying and waiting, Gideon Amponsah finally became a U.S. citizen. Originally from Ghana, the law student was grateful and eager for the opportunity to help the country in any way possible.
“I hope to serve the country as much as possible in any capacity that comes my way,” he said. “It could be jury duty. It could be running for office someday.”
Amponsah was among nearly 150 people from 56 countries who were naturalized during a Friday morning ceremony at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park.
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Dr. Chevy Humphrey, the museum’s president and CEO, gave the opening remarks, commending new citizens for completing their courageous and arduous journey.
“Those of you who are taking this final step in your journey to citizenship represent the embodiment of this dream that transcends borders and brings together individuals from all corners of the world today,” she said.
U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Chief Judge Virgina Kendall of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois joined Humphrey.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on their own families’ immigration stories and congratulated candidates on their similar feats. The ceremony celebrated the journey for some, who spoke about the pride they feel as new Americans.
New citizens gathered with their families after the ceremony in the “Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.” The exhibit, a staple at the museum since 1942, featured more than 50 Christmas trees decorated to reflect different cultures and holiday traditions from around the world.
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In her remarks, Humphrey announced that each new citizen would receive a free museum membership for a year, hoping they explore the museum’s resources.
“It is fitting for this naturalization because you don’t lose your culture, and who you are, and where you came from,” she said. “You’re actually celebrating it in this incredible, free country.”
Throughout the ceremony, some came to tears, overwhelmed with emotions after a long journey to citizenship.
“I’m so happy and excited,” a new citizen named Yeong Ju Jo said. “Now, I want to devote my life to the Church, God and my neighbors.”
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