Nearly 100 people from 25 different countries took the Oath of Allegiance Wednesday to become America’s newest citizens in Punahou’s Dillingham Hall.
This is the third time Punahou has hosted the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services naturalization ceremony, which has become a core component of the JROTC curriculum. Punahou students added a special flair to the ceremony with a presentation of colors by JROTC cadets and performances by the Punahou Chorale.
Academy Principal Emily McCarren delivered an inspiring keynote address to congratulate the new citizens. “You are honoring our great nation today with the oath you have taken,” she said. “The United States of America is better today than it was yesterday because you all are a part of it. With you, our country will continue to realize its aspirations as a place where everybody is welcomed, included, loved and valued.”