SHREVEPORT, La. — Thirty-four people from 26 countries officially became U.S. citizens Thursday during a naturalization ceremony at the Strand Theatre in downtown Shreveport.
The celebration is 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.
Before taking the Oath of Allegiance, the citizenship candidates gathered outside the theater, marking the final step in what many described as a yearslong journey.
"I didn't believe that I would ever become an American," new citizen Hallie Cryer said. "It's amazing. Surreal. It's a dream come true."
Community members also attended to welcome the new citizens.
"It seemed like it was a patriotic thing to do to come out in support for people who are becoming citizens," Marshall resident Warren Johnson said. "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.
"Celebrate your culture. Preserve your traditions. Teach your children about your homeland," Sirven said. "America is stronger because of the many cultures represented in this room today."
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux welcomed the new citizens and encouraged them as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
"I hope that our country gives you every dream that you have," Arceneaux said. "Welcome to the United States. Welcome to Shreveport."
For many, the ceremony represented the culmination of years of waiting.
Hafid Chkhichekh said he spent 12 years working toward U.S. citizenship.
"I just feel happiness," Chkhichekh said. "It's been a long process. I'm finally so happy. My family is happy with me."
Mustafa Ersenergun said becoming a U.S. citizen is a milestone he will never forget.
"You never forget where you come from," Ersenergun said. "But I do know where I belong."
Elisabeth Fatilla said becoming a citizen gives her more opportunities to contribute to her community.
"I hope that I can help contribute even more to this country than I have in the past," Fatilla said.
The ceremony concluded with a reception inside the Strand Theatre, where the new citizens and their families celebrated the occasion alongside community members.
Originally published on ktbs.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.
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