Independence Day Naturalization Ceremony

2008-07-07

12 pictures

Twenty-three years after leaving Argentina for the United States, Drake Professor of Chemistry Maria Bohorquez took the U.S. Oath of Citizenship on Thursday, July 3. The ceremony, which was the last step in becoming a U.S. citizen, took place in the Rotunda at the State Capitol. Prof. Bohorquez was one of 93 new citizens who took the Oath.  Read more about her path to citizenship online.

A man flips through a U.S. history book while he waits for the ceremony to begin.
The U.S. and Iowa flags are presented by the Navy Operational Support Center Color Guard.
Gov. Chet Culver places his hand over his heart as the flag is presented.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer gives opening remarks at the Naturalization Ceremony.
With right hands raised, 93 men and women take the Oath of Allegiance and become U.S. citizens.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Celeste F. Bremer adresses the crowd and welcomes them as new citizens.

A woman holds an American flag during the Naturalization Ceremony.
New citizens place their hands over their hearts to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Amanda Richards sings the National Anthem in front of the Dept. of Homeland Security flag.

Professor Maria Bohorquez joins 92 other new citizens in the Rotunda at the State Capitol.
Maria Bohorquez, left, proudly holds her citizenship certificate with U.S. Magistrate Judge Bremer.
Bohorquez registers to vote after the cermony.