Naturalization Ceremony in Gulfport

The American Dream was alive and well today at the United States Courthouse in Gulfport. A room full of people filled up a courtroom to celebrate 13 of the newest citizens of the United States.

For these 13 people from all across the world, the American Dream became a reality on Thursday morning during the naturalization ceremony in Gulfport. It’s a dream come true for 33 year-old Ana Graciela Gomez from Costa Rica. “It’s just something that I would never expect, but it feels great and I am very thankful.”

As the choir sang patriotic songs, emotions ran high for many of the newest Americans. “I feel like I have a big butterfly in my belly when I came in, kind of like you’re getting married,” said Graciela Gomez.

The lives of 13 people were changed forever as they walked out of the door as American citizens. “I just waited so many years to become a citizen, but it is a very nice feeling,” said Graciela Gomez.

Rahel Abera from Ethiopia had a similar experience becoming a U.S. citizen. “It’s been over seven years now. It’s great. I’m so happy and I am so blessed to be an American.”

U.S. Magistrate Judge John Gargiulo wants to remind the newest U.S. citizens to enjoy their new freedom. “I think that everyone should appreciate their right to vote and their right to serve on jury service. If you come to one of these proceeds, it will re-instill that pride and that drive and make everyone want to be a very good citizen.”