As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary the journey to becoming an American citizen is marked by both triumph and trepidation. For many, the naturalization process is a culmination of years of waiting and a significant milestone in their lives. However, the current political climate and recent changes in immigration policies have added layers of complexity to this journey.
In June, Yesica McKeone, a 32-year-old mother of two, officially became a US citizen. Her journey began at the age of two when she left Michoacán, Mexico, with her family and settled in California. For McKeone, the naturalization ceremony was a moment of profound relief and pride, but it was also tempered by the sobering reality of federal immigration arrests in her neighborhood.
Navigating the Naturalization Process
The path to citizenship has become increasingly challenging in recent years. The Trump administration has implemented stricter citizenship testing standards, longer wait times, and higher filing fees. These barriers, coupled with aggressive immigration enforcement, have raised questions about whether eligible immigrants still feel welcome in the United States.
Despite these challenges, the naturalization process remains a symbol of hope and opportunity. On 4 July, historical sites like Mount Vernon, George Washington’s former residence in Virginia, will host naturalization ceremonies as part of the nationwide America 250 celebration. This symbolism is fitting, as the country’s founders were also individuals who chose to build a new sense of peoplehood after leaving their country of origin.
The Cost of Becoming American
The financial burden of becoming a US citizen has also increased. In June, the Department of Homeland Security proposed steep increases for citizenship application fees. If approved, the proposal would end fee waivers and raise the application cost to $1,280 online or $1,330 on paper. This financial barrier has made the naturalization process even more daunting for many eligible immigrants.
For Kwan “Dawn” Tang, a 32-year-old born in Hong Kong, the everyday friction of permanent residency pushed him to start the citizenship process. After six months of waiting, Tang became a citizen in June. For him, the naturalization ceremony was a moment of freedom and belonging, but it was also a time of reflection on the current state of the United States as an immigrant destination.
Belonging and Identity
The question of who gets to belong in America has been a contentious one throughout the nation’s history. The first naturalization law, passed in 1790, limited citizenship to “free white persons”. Over the years, the definition of who can become an American has evolved, but the debate continues.
As the US enters its 250th year, it is once again confronting old questions about identity and belonging. The nation’s celebrations are unfolding against a backdrop of aggressive immigration enforcement and dramatic changes to immigration policy. Community groups that help immigrants navigate the naturalization process report that the political climate is shaping whether eligible immigrants feel safe enough to take the steps to become citizens.
For new citizens like McKeone and Tang, the journey to becoming American is a complex one. It is a journey marked by pride and uncertainty, hope and fear. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, these new citizens embody the enduring idea that becoming a naturalized citizen is a choice people fight to make.
