Congressman Johnson Marks National Citizenship Day
On June 17th, Americans will stand together to recognize National Citizenship Day of Action. This is an opportunity for immigrants to learn how they can have a stronger voice in America and the future of our country.
The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants from all parts of the world. Deciding to become a U.S. citizen is a very important milestone in an immigrant's life. Individuals must demonstrate a commitment to unifying principals that bind us as Americans and in return, are granted the opportunity to enjoy many of the rights and privileges that are fundamental to U.S. citizenship.
There are 8.8 million people in our country who are eligible to become citizens. Of those people, 3.7 million could become naturalized at a reduced rate or for free if they use the fee waiver form.
On this National Citizenship Day, we will acknowledge the many rights and privileges that become available to immigrants who are naturalized citizens. As a U.S. citizen, you are entitled to the right to vote, which is the foundation of our democracy. This is a right that only citizens can exercise.
U.S. citizens can run for elected federal and state offices to represent the community where they live. Additionally, citizens have priority when petitioning for family members to come live with them in the United States. Traveling to and from the U.S. is also easier once you become a citizen and obtain a U.S. passport.
Obtaining citizenship can increase social and economic mobility. Naturalized U.S. citizens earn higher wages than non-citizens. Citizens can apply for federal government jobs, as well as scholarships, grants and other programs to pursue their higher education. Increasing the number of American citizens who can fully contribute to our country's democratic system and economy helps our country prosper. To that end, my office will continue to educate constituents by informing them about citizenship requirements and the steps to naturalization.
When there are delays with constituents' citizenship applications, I will continue to work on their behalf to ensure that their applications are properly adjudicated.
To obtain further information for the naturalization process, you can visit https://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship. Don't have access to a computer? USCIS also has a mobile app you can access at any time through your mobile device. The app is now available on the iTunes and Google Play app stores.
You can always contact my office at 770-987-2291 for assistance as well.