First class of new citizens sworn in at new White Center Library
(WCN photos)
With the new White Center Library in its first year, it’s seeing a lot of firsts – and this afternoon brought another. It was swearing-in day for the latest quarterly citizenship class held at King County Library System facilities. 17 people were in the class, and 14 were at this afternoon’s ceremony.
Officials from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services presided, as did executives from KCLS, including, above, system director Gary Wasdin. He pointed out that libraries are a resource for finding out what’s happening in their communities, and that staffers will be able to help the new citizens find out how to register to vote.
Thanks to Gill for the tip about today’s ceremony. We unfortunately didn’t get there in time for the national anthem being sung by 4th graders from nearby Mount View Elementary. Also featured: A video with President Obama, also featuring Aretha Franklin singing “America the Beautiful.”
ADDED WEDNESDAY: We just got the list of countries represented by the new citizens:
Bangladesh
Burma
Denmark
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Pakistan
Philippines
Russia
Somalia
South Korea
United Kingdom
Congratulations to all!
ADDED: Two more photos, courtesy of Gill – the first one includes the aforementioned students who sang:
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October 18th, 2016 at 7:58 pm
Congratulations and welcome to the new citizens! I hope your new country is everything you dreamed it would be.
October 18th, 2016 at 9:38 pm
Thanks for coming and covering the story. It’s such an uplifting opportunity to remember how great our country really is. And what a great chance to show off the beautiful new White Center Library
October 19th, 2016 at 9:55 am
Wasn’t sure what to expect but the whole ceremony got to me. Very moving to see all these people become new citizens. This is what our community is all about.
October 19th, 2016 at 10:57 pm
Congratulations!