INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis International Airport hosted its first naturalization ceremony.
On Tuesday, Nov. 12, 47 people were sworn-in at the airport, where they raised their right hands and took the Oath of Citizenship, all becoming U.S. citizens.
The new citizens immigrated from 24 countries across the world, IND officials said.
“The Indy airport welcomes millions of people through its doors each year, and today, we were truly moved in welcoming 47 individuals who have proudly walked the road to citizenship,” said Mario Rodriguez, Indianapolis Airport Authority executive director.
The ceremony was presided over by Jane E. Magnus-Stinson. Newly naturalized citizen Abdullah Zedan, the youngest of the candidates, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Gadi Rwenyaguza, the oldest of the newly naturalized citizens, was presented with an American flag from The International Center.
“The ability to administer the oath of citizenship is both a solemn and joyful responsibility of being a federal judge," Magnus-Stinson said. “I am delighted to participate in Tuesday’s naturalization ceremony being hosted by the Indianapolis International Airport, a particularly fitting site. The airport is the preeminent welcoming place of the Indianapolis community, and its support for the immigrant community is longstanding. The Court is grateful for its hospitality in hosting this celebration.”
Representatives from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Indianapolis Public Library, IndyGo, the Marion County Clerk’s Office and Indiana League of Women Voters were at the ceremony to help the new citizens apply for their Real IDs, sign up for library cards, learn about the city’s public transit system, register to vote and more.
IND officials said the new citizens also received a complementary portrait taken by Kelly Lynn Photography.
“I’m very happy and excited for this moment and blessed for all the opportunities ahead," said Paola DeWeese, a new citizen originally from Bolivia. "God Bless the USA!”