The past year was exciting for my parents and brother. They
became naturalized U.S citizens! After living in the United States for over 20
years, my family decided it was time to show our loyalty to this country we
call home. It was not an easy journey for my family. We came, not knowing the
language and culture. The only person we knew was my grandfather. My father
made this decision because he wanted a better future for my siblings and I. He didn't think we received the same type of education and opportunities in our
home country. His ultimate goal was for his children to become successful in
whatever we decided to do.
We have many of these stories come
through our citizenship classes. Most of our students are adult learners. Like
my mother, they came to the United States not knowing the culture and the language.
Even though they didn't know English, it didn't stop them from pursuing their
American dream.
On the first day of class I always
ask my students why they want to become U.S citizens. The two common answers I
get are “better opportunities” and “freedom”. Our students either came to the
United States on their own or as refugees fleeing for their lives. Their
stories differ, but they share one thing in common; they came to a new country
not knowing the culture or the language. Without knowing the language, they
made Indiana their new home.
Coordinating the citizenship
classes has been a rewarding job. Over the period of 10 weeks, I've seen students
not only improve their English, but also boost their confidence. Many students
confessed the most they had spoken English was during the citizenship classes.
Many were soft-spoken and it seemed like they were embarrassed to speak English, because they were scared the other students would criticize them. Once they
realized our classes were a safe and comfortable environment for them to speak
English, that fear went out the window.
The day of their naturalization
ceremony is an exciting and emotional day for the students and their families. These
ceremonies reward new citizens for all their hard work and dedication. I am
also a naturalized citizen, and I know the feeling of receiving that
certificate. My heart wanted to burst with excitement knowing I could now vote
and contribute to the place that had been my home for the past 20 years!
We want citizenship classes to continue to
grow and expand. These classes wouldn't be possible without our volunteers.
Please consider becoming an instructor or tutor for our citizenship classes. It’s
a rewarding experience when you see the students proudly holding up their U.S
flags and naturalization certificates!
*Rebeca has been the Citizen Education Coordinator with
Refugee and Immigrant Services since September 2012.
