Naturalization Ceremony In Las Cruces Adds 200 New Citizens

There are 200 new U.S. citizens in the borderland thanks to a naturalization ceremony Friday morning at the Las Cruces Convention Center.

The new citizens come from 22 countries, including India, the Philippines and even Germany.

ABC-7 spoke with Susan Jacintho, a woman born more than 5,000 miles away in Wales who was naturalized in the ceremony.

“I’ve been here now for over 10 years. It’s been the right time to finally get my U.S. citizenship. It’s a very proud moment for me,” said Jacintho.

The new citizens now have the right to vote as well as other privileges now that they are U.S. citizens.

Jacintho said it’s also about setting the right example for her children.

“My son is in scouts and I want to set a good example to him and the boys. It’s a very good day,” said Jacintho.

In fiscal year 2011, more than 690,000 people became U.S. citizens.

The application process involves interviews and tests that must be passed for approval. The entire process can take from five months to two years to complete.