In a significant development for hundreds of local residents awaiting citizenship, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) announced that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reversed its recent decision to cancel naturalization ceremonies in Rockland, Westchester, and across New York State.
The change follows Congressman Lawler’s letter to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow and a series of direct conversations with the Director urging immediate action. USCIS is expected to release additional guidance shortly regarding the full restoration of ceremonies statewide.
“After raising this issue directly with USCIS and speaking to Director Edlow, I’m pleased to share that the agency will reverse its decision and allow naturalization ceremonies in Rockland and Westchester to resume immediately,” said Congressman Lawler. “Our communities are strengthened by the contributions of new citizens every single day.”
He added that these ceremonies hold deep meaning not only for new Americans, but for him personally. “These ceremonies are among the most moving and patriotic events I attend as a public official. For so many new Americans, including my own wife, this moment represents years of hard work, sacrifice, and an unwavering belief in the American Dream. To cancel these ceremonies without warning was unacceptable, and I’m glad USCIS acted quickly to fix it.”
Lawler’s full letter to USCIS can be found HERE.