[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 125 (Thursday, September 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1676]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




PERMITTING MEMBERS OF CONGRESS TO ADMINISTER THE OATH OF ALLEGIANCE TO 
                     APPLICANTS FOR NATURALIZATION

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                  HON. HENRY C. ``HANK'' JOHNSON, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 15, 2010

  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 
4862, which permits Members of Congress to administer the oath of 
allegiance to applicants for naturalization. I strongly support this 
bill and am a proud cosponsor of this bill.
  Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to 
a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements 
established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act. 
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, more than 
700,000 immigrants become U.S. citizens every year.
  America is a diverse nation that was built on immigrants. As we all 
know, immigrants have made, and continue to make, lasting contributions 
to our society. In my home state of Georgia, immigrants comprise at 
least 11.9 percent of the state workforce. Thus, it is important to do 
all we can to create pathways for immigrants to become U.S. citizens. 
America is known for its rich diversity which is truly a source of 
strength and competitiveness.
  At naturalization ceremonies, immigrants finally have the chance to 
become official citizens of the United States. Becoming a naturalized 
citizen U.S. citizen is a process that can take years to accomplish. 
Individuals must not only be knowledgeable about U.S. history, but be 
very patient. Naturalization is a special moment in their lives when 
all of their hard work, determination, and persistence ultimately pays 
off and they become U.S. citizens.
  I look forward to having the opportunity to administer the oath of 
allegiance to applicants for naturalization. Immigrants have, and will 
continue, to make long-lasting contributions to the United States. Mr. 
Speaker, I strongly support H.R. 4862 and urge my colleagues to do the 
same. I yield back the balance of my time.

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