Last month, Nevins Memorial Library’s Great Hall was filled with 48 people who proudly took the Oath of Allegiance to become United States citizens. They arrived from Brazil, Central America, Asia, Africa, Italy, Norway and Lebanon. Most balanced work, life, and extensive studying and testing to get to this point.

With American flags in their hand, all 48 Massachusetts residents – including four from Methuen – stood as Immigration Service Officer Justin Merrifield administered the oath as well as a motion for six to have their names legally changed. All motions were granted and all approved for citizenship by Judge Leo T. Sorokin of the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts. The room erupted in loud cheers and plenty of tears.

“We are all citizens and that is what brings us all together. That’s what makes us a country and now you are part of that.” Sorokin said. “It is by that fact of citizenship that you are now Americans and we all stand together.”

He then asked all of them to turn and congratulate each other.

He continued, “I know the path for some of you was long to get here and the process not always smooth. It was your persistence and desire that brought you here today. We are a nation of immigrants and descendants of immigrants. This is a day for you and your family to celebrate. You now have the right to vote, to choose who you want to elect. You will now be chosen for jury duty, your right to decide during a trial. So I urge you all to register to vote and do so.”

Mayor David “DJ” Beauregard addressed the new citizens saying, “This moment, your moment, represents something sacred in the American story. The belief of who you are, where you came from or how you got here does not limit who you can become. You came to this county with dreams, freedom, safety and opportunities. Many of you crossed oceans and left family behind to build a better life for you and your children. This is your America now!”

Remarks were also given by Library Director Krista McLeod who explained the importance of libraries and how these resource spaces will further help the new citizens with achieving their American Dream.

Sen. Pavel Payano also greeted the new citizens, welcoming them to the land of opportunity.

The morning ended with each new citizen receiving their naturalization papers.

Some waved their flags, others cheered loudly and still others cried after achieving their dream of US citizenship. They ranged in age from young teens to older adults.