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The Office of Human Rights and Equity (OHRE) recently co-hosted a naturalization ceremony with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Office in New Orleans at the historic Gallier Hall. The event celebrated the granting of U.S. citizenship to nearly 40 individuals, marking a significant milestone in their lives and the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Local media outlets covered the ceremony, capturing the excitement and emotion of the newly naturalized citizens:

• FOX 8 News reported on the event, featuring interviews with the new citizens who expressed their joy and sense of belonging. One participant shared, "I feel like I belong here now." The full story can be found at fox8live.com.
• WGNO also covered the ceremony, highlighting the importance of this moment for the individuals and their families. The segment can be viewed at WGNO Playback Portal.
• WWL provided coverage as well, documenting the ceremony and the reactions of the participants. Their report can be accessed at WWL Playback Portal.

June 11, 2024 | From City of New Orleans

‘I feel like I belong here now:’ New Orleans gains nearly 40 new U.S. citizens in naturalization ceremony

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - A special ceremony Wednesday morning (May 29) naturalized 38 green card holders at Gallier Hall, as they vowed their allegiance to, and became citizens of, the United States.

Canadian native Cameron Pasula said he found himself in the throes of love after meeting his now-wife Alicia while on a work visa in 2017.

“We started dating and then (began) a long-distance relationship for five years,” Pasula said. “Finally came here and got married.”

That marriage got Pasula his green card in February 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic began ramping up.

 

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