Goshen, N.Y. – Legislator James O’Donnell was the keynote speaker at the Naturalization ceremony on Thursday, June 7th at the County’s Government Center.
County Clerk Annie Rabbitt administered the Oath of Allegiance to the new citizens and Orange County Family Court Judge Victoria Campbell presided over the ceremony. Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and District Attorney David Hoovler also attended the event.
“My father is an Irish immigrant and I have always been proud of my heritage,” O’Donnell said. “His story serves as an inspiration to me and I enjoyed sharing part of it with our newest citizens and their families today. The different ethnicities and nationalities represented are what make our country great. I was honored to spend some time with them and I wish them all the best here in the United States.”
One hundred one people from 43 countries took the Oath of Allegiance, the final part of the naturalization process, renouncing all foreign allegiance while pledging to support and defend the American Constitution and to follow the laws of the United States. The County Clerk’s Office hosts four naturalization ceremonies each year in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security (Citizenship and Immigration Services).
(Orange County Family Court Judge Victoria Campbell with a new citizen)
“It’s always an honor to take part in the County’s naturalization ceremonies,” Neuhaus said. “I welcome these new citizens and their families to the U.S. and wish them much success. As the son of immigrant parents, I’m aware of the importance of what these men and women have accomplished.”
Added Rabbitt: “Recognizing the accomplishment of these new citizens and welcoming them to this great country is always an inspirational experience. The Naturalization ceremony continues the promise made so many years ago that this nation will always be a beacon of hope for new citizens.”
For more information, contact Justin Rodriguez, Assistant to the County Executive for Communications and Media Relations at 845.291.3255 or jrodriguez@orangecountygov.com.