Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites

INDIANAPOLIS – Eighty people from around the world will become U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony taking place at 10 a.m. Aug. 29 in the Indiana State Museum’s Great Hall.

A judge from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana will preside and administer the Oath of Allegiance as friends and family of the newest Americans look on.

The speakers will include Cathy Ferree, president and CEO of the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, and representatives from congressional offices and the governor’s office. A representative from the International Center will present an American flag to the eldest new citizen.

“The Indiana State Museum is happy to once again host the naturalization ceremony after a two-year absence because of Covid,” Ferree said. “It is an honor for us to participate in this important and moving ceremony. It’s a reminder of how precious U.S. citizenship truly is.”

The candidates for naturalization are all foreign-born individuals who have met the application criteria for citizenship as determined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The oath is the final step in the citizenship process.

According to USCIS, candidates must meet the following criteria to apply for citizenship:

• Be at least 18 years of age at the time they file their application.
• Have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on which naturalization category they are applying under).
• Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States.
• Be able to read, write and speak basic English.
• Demonstrate good moral character.
• Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government.
•  Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

Media interested in attending can park on the Washington Street circle. Please RSVP to Marc Allan – [email protected] or 317.234.8146.