In 1988 I worked as a congressional staffer for a conservative congressman. Loved my job. We were making a difference, we really were. At the time one of the areas I helped constituents was in the area of immigration and naturalization.
I do not recall the details of the case, but, there was a young person whose family was trying to get him out of the Soviet Union. There was a small gap and window of time for us to succeed. Our office was working with the State Department and other resources to be able to bring them safely into this country.
In short, we were successful and I was invited to their naturalization service while they took the oath of allegiance to become a citizen of the United States. It was one of the most moving services of that type I had ever attended. These people who came from many different backgrounds and countries were actually “swearing” their allegiance to this country.
Here’s the oath of allegiance.
“I solemnly, freely, and without mental reservation, I hereby renounce under oath all allegiance to any foreign state. My fidelity and allegiance from this day forward is to the United States of America. I pledge to support, honor, and be loyal to the United States, its Constitution, and its laws. Where and if lawfully required, I further commit myself to defend the Constitution and laws of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, either by military, noncombatant, or civilian service. This I do solemnly swear, so help me God.”
If you ever have an opportunity to go to a similar service go to it. You will be reminded as to the freedoms we are afforded in this country.
It is definitely something to consider as we go into the Fourth of July holiday.
JHH
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