New citizens welcomed in Stillwater ceremony

STILLWATER – It was at the Saratoga National Historical Park – practically a musket shot away from the hallowed ground of a battlefield that turned the tide of the American Revolution – where 20 individuals from 16 different countries, took the oath of allegiance on the Fourth of July to become new citizens of the United States of America on Tuesday.

“We can’t thank you enough for being a part of what we term as a melting pot or a mosaic,” Republican Sen. Jim Tedisco of Glenville said. “Because the other great part, besides what our veterans and soldiers do for us, is the diversity of what we have in the great nation.”

Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D – Round Lake) reminded America’s newest citizens they have embarked on a transformative journey that will not only forever shape their lives, but will shape the future of a great nation.

“Our strength as a nation lies in our ability to embrace diversity,” said Woerner. “To recognize that each of us brings our unique talents and perspectives to the tapestry of America.”

From Congressman Paul Tonko (D – Amsterdam), a reminder for all Americans to honor the journey of immigrant ancestors past, present, and future, and to never forget the power and poignancy of this transformative moment in time.

“What determination immigrant ancestors had, what courage, what dreams of opportunity in the streets lined with gold,” said Tonko. “Today we say thank you for not only inspiring us, but reminding us this is a land of possibility.

A land of possibility and opportunity that all Americans agree should never be taken for granted.