"The Meaning of American Citizenship," INS Commissioner


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Posted by Paul Andrew Mitchell, B.A., M.S. on September 15, 1998 at 19:29:58:

The Meaning of American Citizenship
Commissioner of Immigration and Naturalization


Today you have become a citizen of the United States
of America. You are no longer an Englishman, a Frenchman,
an Italian, a Pole. Neither are you a hyphenated-American
-- a Polish-American, an Italian-American. You are no
longer a subject of a government. Henceforth, you are an
integral part of this Government -- a free man -- a Citizen
of the United States of America.

This citizenship, which has been solemnly conferred on
you, is a thing of the spirit -- not of the flesh. When
you took the oath of allegiance to the Constitution of the
United States, you claimed for yourself the God-given
unalienable rights which that sacred document sets forth as
the natural right of all men.

You have made sacrifices to reach this desired goal.
We, your fellow citizens, realize this, and the warmth of
our welcome to you is increased proportionately. However,
we would tincture it with friendly caution.

As you have learned during these years of preparation,
this great honor carries with it the duty to work for and
make secure this longed-for and eagerly-sought status.
Government under our Constitution makes American
citizenship the highest privilege and at the same time the
greatest responsibility of any citizenship in the world.

The important rights that are now yours and the duties
and responsibilities attendant thereon are set forth
elsewhere in this manual. It is hoped that they will serve
as a constant reminder that only by continuing to study and
learn about your new country, its ideals, achievements, and
goals, and by everlastingly working at your citizenship can
you enjoy its fruits and assure their preservation for
generations to follow.

May you find in this Nation the fulfillment of your
dreams of peace and security, and may America, in turn,
never find you wanting in your new and proud role of
Citizen of the United States.

[Basic Guide to Naturalization and Citizenship]
[Immigration and Naturalization Service]
[U.S. Department of Justice]
[page 265, emphasis added]



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