New York Attorney General Letitia James has sent a letter to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph B. Edlow regarding the recent cancellation of naturalization ceremonies in several New York counties. The affected counties include Broome, Onondaga, Rockland, Schenectady, Tompkins, Washington, and Westchester.
In her letter, James expressed concern about the abrupt decision by USCIS to cancel these ceremonies and to stop conducting them in the future. She emphasized the significance of the oath of allegiance for new citizens and their communities. “As you well know, and as reflected in the many meaningful ceremonies your agency has organized over many years, taking the oath of allegiance and becoming a United States citizen is a proud and significant moment for our newest citizens and their communities. An oath ceremony represents the culmination of a lengthy process and the beginning of a new chapter for those who achieve U.S. citizenship. For years, New Yorkers have celebrated this milestone with friends and family in their communities, at ceremonies that reflect the best of us as a Nation,” wrote James.
James highlighted that holding these ceremonies within local communities allows residents to participate without having to travel far from home. “Hosting naturalization ceremonies within communities in New York has also been an important benefit to our residents, as it allows them to take the oath in an easily accessible place that has become their home and permits families and friends to participate without traveling long distances,” she stated.
She noted that county officials and community members were notified on short notice without adequate explanation or efforts to resolve any issues related to the cancellations. “This sudden change has caused alarm and disappointment from a bipartisan group of county officials, local leaders, and community members. They received this news on short notice, without adequate explanation, and without any effort to address and resolve any obstacles. I ask that you reconsider, and work with our county leadership who will continue to play their part in organizing these important ceremonies,” said James.
The attorney general requested written responses from USCIS regarding whether these cancellations are permanent or temporary due to a recent government shutdown; how the shutdown may have impacted ceremonies; if those impacts have been resolved following renewed federal funding; and what steps USCIS is taking to prevent delays in processing citizenship paperwork.
James asked for responses by December 4, 2025.
