Naturalization Ceremony Set for Friday at RCC After Earlier Cancellations, Thanks to Rep. Lawler

By Y.M. Lowy

After weeks of uncertainty, a naturalization ceremony will take place this Friday at Rockland Community College, with Congressman Mike Lawler as the keynote speaker.

The event follows USCIS's sudden cancellation of naturalization ceremonies in Rockland, Westchester, and other parts of New York State earlier this fall. The cancellations caused confusion for families who had been preparing for the major milestone of becoming United States citizens.

Lawler advocated with federal officials, sending a letter to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow and later speaking with him directly on this issue. He said the sudden cancellations left too many people stuck without clear information.

Two weeks ago, USCIS told him the ceremonies would be brought back. Now the plans are moving ahead, and Friday’s event will be the first local ceremony to return. 

Lawler emphasized the importance and benefits of holding such events within the community, as has always been the case. The ceremony at RCC will now provide a fresh start for people whose plans were previously stalled.