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Naturalization ceremony at Clinton Presidential Library, 39 new citizens welcomed by former President Bill Clinton
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Thirty-nine individuals from 18 different countries and nationalities were officially sworn in as United States citizens Monday afternoon during a naturalization ceremony held at the Clinton Presidential Library.
The event was made even more special by the presence of former President Bill Clinton, who addressed the new Americans with words of encouragement, gratitude and hope for their futures.
The ceremony celebrated the journeys of men and women who, after navigating the immigration process and demonstrating knowledge of U.S. history, government and civic values, took their oaths of allegiance to become full participants in the American democratic system.
Former President Bill Clinton welcomes new U.S. citizens at naturalization ceremony in Little Rock
One of those new citizens, Selen Strickland, originally from Turkey, reflected on her six-year journey to citizenship.
'It's a very big accomplishment,' she said. 'I came to the U.S. six years ago to pursue my master's degree. After my studies, I decided to stay, moved to Little Rock five years ago, met my husband, and now we have a one-year-old daughter. I feel very proud—this is a big achievement and a major milestone in my life.'
Former President Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, welcomed the group with heartfelt remarks, commending their resilience and the diversity they bring to the nation.
'Thank you for bringing your talents, perseverance, and your dreams to the United States,' Clinton said. 'There is nothing more important than what people decide to do with their lives, their minds and their hearts every new day.'
Clinton urged the newly naturalized citizens to embrace education, civic participation and the responsibilities of their new status.
'You now hold the cards to forge a new future for yourselves and your families,' he said. 'As a country, we welcome the heritage you bring. Together, we continue to form a more perfect union.'
Many attendees had the chance to meet and shake hands with the former president, who emphasized that being American is not about background but about shared values and commitment to the community.
'Whatever your nationality, as long as you follow the law, show up, work hard, pay your taxes and do all the things that are burdens of citizenship—we're glad you're here,' Clinton concluded.
Immigrants from 22 countries become U.S. citizens in Little Rock
As the event came to a close, emotions ran high among the new citizens who now call the United States their home.
For many, including Strickland, the moment marked the culmination of years of perseverance and the start of a new chapter in the American story.
'After all the sacrifices and everything, I think this is the reward that I'm getting today, becoming an American citizen,' she said through tears.
The ceremony served not only as a celebration of individual achievement but also as a powerful reminder of the enduring promise of the American dream.
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