New York Attorney General Letitia James has called on the federal government to reverse its decision to cancel naturalization ceremonies in several New York counties. In a letter sent to Joseph B. Edlow, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), James expressed concern over the abrupt cancellation of these events in Westchester, Rockland, Schenectady, Washington, Broome, Tompkins, and Onondaga counties.
James wrote: “I am writing with deep concern about the abrupt decision by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to cancel naturalization ceremonies in counties across New York State and to suspend their future occurrence.”
She emphasized the importance of these ceremonies for new citizens and their communities: “As you well know, and as demonstrated by the numerous and significant ceremonies your agency has organized over the years, taking an oath of allegiance and becoming a U.S. citizen is a moment of pride and significance for our new citizens and their communities. An oath ceremony represents the culmination of a long process and the beginning of a new stage for those who obtain U.S. citizenship. For years, New Yorkers have celebrated this special occasion with friends and family in their communities at ceremonies that reflect the best of our nation.”
James also highlighted how holding naturalization ceremonies locally benefits residents by allowing them to take part close to home with family support: “The celebration of naturalization ceremonies in New York communities has also provided an important benefit for our residents, as it allows them to take the oath in an accessible location that has become their home and enables family members and friends to participate without having to travel long distances.”
According to James, local officials received little notice or explanation about the cancellations. She stated: “This sudden change has caused alarm and disappointment among a bipartisan group of county officials, local leaders, and community members. They received this news with little advance notice, without adequate explanation or any effort to address or resolve obstacles.”
James requested written answers from USCIS within 15 days regarding whether these cancellations are permanent or temporary due to recent government shutdowns; what impact any shutdown had on these events; if recent federal funding agreements have resolved such impacts; and what preparations USCIS is making to avoid delays in processing citizenship documentation for New Yorkers.
She concluded her letter: “Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.”
