PORTLAND, Maine — Raising their right hands, 46 new U.S. citizens from 31 countries took the oath of allegiance on Friday morning. The swearing-in event was held at King Middle School.
The event marked the end of a seventh grade learning unit called “Coming to America.” Students investigated the history, current issues, and impact of immigration in the United States. They also interviewed new Mainers about their immigration experiences.
Both Gov. Janet Mills and Superintendent of Portland Schools Xavier Botana spoke at the ceremony.
Mills thanked the new citizens for choosing Maine as their new homes.
“Our state and country need you,” Mills said.
Botana, originally from Cuba, shared his own experience as an immigrant and naturalized United States citizen.
“This is now your America,” he told them. “Congratulations.”
One new citizen, Adel Al Rashid, beamed through most of the ceremony. Originally from Iraq, Al Rashid has lived in Augusta for five years. With two of his children in tow, he said he’s very happy to be in Maine.
“I love Augusta,” he said. “I love the small city.”
