26 New U.S. Citizens Sworn in During Naturalization Ceremony at Library

For immediate release: June 18, 2019

In partnership with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Douglas County Libraries (DCL) was pleased to host the naturalization ceremony for 26 new citizens, from 17 different countries, at its Parker location on Saturday, June 15. The new citizens, including one current DCL employee, took the Oath of Allegiance in the library’s event hall in front of their families, friends and library patrons, who also enjoyed a reception of light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.

DCL Adult Literacy Specialist Tiffany Curtin worked with USCIS to facilitate the ceremony. “I have had the pleasure of seeing firsthand how new Americans enrich our lives,” said Curtin. “At the library, we see new Americans gain the language skills to become volunteers, gain employment, pursue professional goals, earn promotions, enter higher education, support their children in school, and transform their lives. DCL is honored to host these ceremonies and welcome our community to join the celebration,” she added.

Following a performance by High Spirit Harmonies a cappella group, Chaparral High School student Ryan McPherson opened the ceremony by singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The entire room also joined in the singing of the national anthem.

Curtin and DCL Information Technology Director Jeff Konishi each spoke to the room of new citizens and their guests, and an adult literacy volunteer shared her immigration story as a naturalized citizen. Mi Familia Vota was also present to help with new voter registration, and Daughters of the American Revolution representatives spoke and presented the new citizens with the United States Flag Code.

DCL offers one-on-one tutoring in English as a second language; citizenship preparation classes to help with citizenship application and interviews, with representatives from USCIS available to answer questions; English-language conversation practice groups; and basic adult education classes for aspiring citizens.

Learn more about DCL’s Adult Education and Test Prep programs and services at DCL.org/adult-education.

Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.

Twenty-six new U.S. citizens from 17 different countries took the Oath of Allegiance on June 15 in front of their families, friends and other guests at Douglas County Libraries in Parker.

Families were excited to celebrate the citizenship journey of their loved ones.

DCL Information Technology Director Jeff Konishi was a featured speaker at Saturday’s ceremony.

Local a cappella group High Spirit Harmonies performed prior to the library’s Naturalization Ceremony.