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Washington, DC — An inextricable part of American history is immigration. Welcoming newcomers from all over the world into our communities is a defining characteristic of this nation. Few – if any – nations have the distinction of being known as “a nation of immigrants.”

The individuals and families that seek refuge and opportunity in America often go on to create businesses and leave lasting positive impacts on the towns and regions in which they settle, building their own version of the American Dream and strengthening communities and the country in the process. Today is National Citizenship Day, an occasion to reflect on the importance of welcoming and celebrating those becoming citizens in pursuit of the American Dream.

According to Mario Carrillo, Campaigns Manager at America’s Voice Education Fund, and a naturalized U.S. Citizen:

“Becoming a U.S. citizen more than 20 years ago was a profound honor for me and my family. Like millions of families before us, my parents came to this country so that their children could have a better life and to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the U.S. I’ll never forget being able to register to vote and having a say in the future of our country. It’s a responsibility that I don’t take for granted.

Even as immigrants and immigration are being demonized and denigrated and identified – wrongly – as an existential threat to our way of life, immigration and citizenship remain bedrock American values. On this Citizenship Day, as thousands of new citizens take their oath, we must cherish this nation of immigrants and continue to amplify the countless contributions made by hard working immigrants and naturalized citizens who call this country home.”

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