The public is invited to join the celebration and watch as approximately 100 immigrants become new citizens, sworn in by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Field Office Director Linda Dougherty. The ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on September 20, at the Mount Tahoma High School Auditorium, 4634 S. 74th Street, Tacoma.
The September ceremony date coincides with Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, which are observed on September 17. This national holiday commemorates the signing of the Constitution and the recognition of “all who, by naturalization, have become citizens."
Since the 1940’s Pierce County residents travelled to Seattle for their formal citizenship ceremony. Four years ago the Pierce County Auditor’s Office spearheaded a group dedicated to having the ceremony close to home.
Approximately 100 immigrants are expected to participate and become American citizens. Together with their family members and supporters, nearly 500 people are expected to attend.
The Sons of the American Revolution will be on hand in period dress and will post the colors. Pocket-sized books of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights will be given away with American flags and pins.
ABOUT THE CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY
The ceremony is planned by the Pierce County Auditor’s Office, USCIS, and a number of local non-profit partners. It was made possible this year by a generous donation from the Haughton Family Foundation.