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International Institute of Rhode Island's mission is to enable all area residents, especially immigrants and refugees, to become self-reliant, invested participants in our communities, while fostering respect and understanding among all people. Read more

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September 17 , 2010

Today is National Citizenship Day!

Becoming a U.S. Citizen requires diligence, dedication, and patience. Applicants must file for Naturalization and processing may take up to two years. Each applicant must be interviewed by a local U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Services office, and pass a rigorous Citizenship Exam. The final step is the Oath Ceremony where new citizens come together to pledge their allegiance to the U.S.

Citizenship Day was established on February 29, 1952 by President Harry S. Truman who signed a bill declaring September 17 as Citizenship Day. It is a day to recognize and honor citizens. It is also the same day on which the U.S. Constitution was signed in 1787.

Congratulations to two IIRI staff members who became U.S. Citizens this year – Roxana Amedeo, Interpreting and Translating Coordinator and Samy Ndayisaba, Refugee Resettlement Caseworker.

Roxana came to the U.S. from Panama to marry the man of her dreams.  She came to IIRI to process her citizenship paperwork.  After learning more about IIRI, she became a volunteer, and was later hired as an employee.  Samy and his family came from Rwanda after many years in exile in various African nations.  Immediately after arriving, Samy worked at Falvey Linen Company.  Eventually he was able to follow his dream to help others as a Caseworker both at IIRI and at Family Service of RI. 

For more information about Citizenship and Immigration .