This week, over 50 people became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.

It was no doubt a memorable moment for these people who came from all over the world to pledge their allegiance to our nation and make this country their permanent home.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Acting Director Ken Cuccinelli told participants: 

“As citizens of this great country, American history is now your history. 

“Our American future is yours to help shape. And we expect you to help shape it.”

The Associated Press captured the special moment for these new citizens and their families in a moving video.

Did you know …

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services welcomed:

  • More than 7.4 million naturalized citizens during the last decade.

  • About 700,000 – 750,000 new citizens each year.

  • New citizens from the following top countries of origin (in order):  Mexico, India, Philippines, People’s Republic of China, and Cuba.

  • Over 100,000 members of the military as new citizens, with 11,240 of those service members taking part in naturalization ceremonies in 35 foreign countries.

America is arguably the most welcoming nation for immigrants. There are more immigrants living here (both legally and illegally) than any country in the world. We are home to 44.5 million immigrants or 13.7 percent of the U.S. population.

Take our quiz to see how much you know about immigration in the U.S.: ImmigrationQuestions.com