PLATTSBURGH — Christmas came early for 16 people Friday who had been patiently waiting to become United States citizens.
“Today, you’ll be joining a people who are among the freest on the face of this earth,” the Hon. Allison M. McGahay, State Supreme Court justice, said during the naturalization ceremony in Clinton County Supreme Court.
“With your new citizenship and rights as an American, you will be free to pursue whatever dream you have for yourself and for your family, and we as fellow Americans root for your success.”
The 16 applicants originated from six countries.
Marcias Jose Martinez, along with his wife Lisbet Martinez and son, were among them.
Marcias was born in Venezuela, but he grew up in Canada and has been living and working in the United States for the past eight years.
The three of them became citizens and took their oath of allegiance together Friday.
“The country made us feel welcome,” Marcias said. “We’re happy to be part of that social fabric of the United States.”
“This is home now, this is where we’ve settled down. We have a family here.”
‘THE RIGHT TIME’
Marcias is currently a professor at Clarkson University in the mechanical and aerospace engineering department.
He said becoming a citizen will create more opportunities for his work.
“I work with Clarkson, but I also have contracts and programs with the U.S. Navy, and so this opens opportunities to serve the country.”
Yves St. Germain was another Canadian who received their citizenship Friday. He grew up just across the border in Montreal but has lived in Plattsburgh for some time now.
He said becoming a citizen was his “next step” and “absolutely” felt good about it.
“I figured it would be the right time to take the next step and become a citizen and just have a right to vote and … be a part of the jury process if needed.”
Clinton County Clerk John Zurlo, who administered the oath of allegiance, told everyone in attendance that “We’re proud to welcome you as citizens of the United States of America.”
“You have achieved a great milestone in your lives,” he said.
Similarly, McGahay said “Many of you have worked very hard to sacrifice so much to be here tonight.”
“Some of you have left loved ones back to your home country, and some of you will be joining family already here. Some of you have come from places that sadly, have not known freedom and liberty. Some of you have come from places that don’t offer opportunities. Some of you have come here for a new start and to begin your life again,” she said.
“Again, as fellow Americans, we wish you much success and happiness. As you were saying the Pledge of Allegiance, we are reminded that the pledge contains our greatest hope in what we all want: one nation under God with liberty and justice for all.”