New Citizens

Naturalization ceremonies are held every March and September in the U. S. District Court in Portland for new citizens who change their legal names. They are sworn in by one of two presiding judges, both of whom are naturalized Americans. Typically, 50-60 applicants are granted citizenship at these events.
As the new citizens leave the court room, two or three League members pass out voter registration cards and, at the Court's request, applications for new passports. Representatives of The Mayflower Society and the DAR also appear at these festive occasions, which are often covered by the press.

USCIS in South Portland

In late 2007, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Service (USCIS) invited the League to play a similar role in its administrative naturalization ceremonies. Held about every two weeks, these events are smaller, more intimate and less formal. New citizens sworn in at administrative naturalization ceremonies do not change their names, hence require no court appearance.
Up to three sessions (8:45am, 10:00am and 11:15am) are scheduled at each event with a maximum of 16 applicants in each session. Occasionally, these ceremonies are held at area schools, which are somewhat larger in scope.
Representatives of The Mayflower Society and the DAR also participate in these events.

Recruits Needed

This New Citizens Project welcomes more volunteers! If you are interested, please contact the Portland League at PortlandAreaLWV@att.net. Satisfaction guaranteed!

Comments, suggestions, questions? Contact our webmaster. Last revised: June 9, 2008 06:27 PDT.