A Day Of Dreams Realized: U.S. Citizenship Ceremony Welcomes 25 New Americans

Dearborn, MI – April 16, 2025 — In a room filled with joy, pride, and unity, the American Human Rights Council (AHRC), in proud partnership with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), hosted a moving U.S. Naturalization Ceremony at Wayne County Community College District’s (WCCCD) Northwest Campus in Detroit. On this remarkable day, we did not just welcome new citizens, we welcomed new dreams, new stories, and a renewed hope into the heart of America.

Twenty-five individuals, hailing from twelve different countries—Bangladesh, Egypt, France, Gambia, Jordan, South Korea, Lebanon, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland, Uganda, and Yemen—stood with courage as they took the Oath of Allegiance, becoming America’s newest citizens. Surrounded by loved ones and community members, they embraced not just a new legal status, but a new identity—and a new chapter in the shared American story. This is the true spirit of America.

This day was a celebration of the deeper meaning of American citizenship: the sense of true belonging, the responsibility to uphold our shared values, and a commitment to a future rooted in freedom, justice, and opportunity for all. Today marks not only a new beginning for these individuals but a lifelong promise to contribute, serve, and stand united as part of this great American journey.

The ceremony was presided over by the Honorable Judge Stephanie Davis of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, who led the oath-taking with dignity and reverence. Mistress of Ceremonies Stephanie Capuzzi, Supervisory Immigration Services Officer with USCIS, formally opened the session, while FOX 2 Detroit Anchor Roop Raj, serving as Master of Ceremonies, shared his heartfelt reflections on being the son of immigrants who too pursued and achieved the American Dream.

The ceremony began with a Color Guard Presentation by the Wayne County Sheriff Honor Guard, followed by a stirring rendition of the national anthem performed by the acclaimed artist and singer Ms. Yasmeen Suri.

Mr. Furquan Ahmed, WCCCD Senior Vice Chancellor and Northwest Campus President, welcomed guests warmly and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to inclusivity and education as cornerstones of the American experience. WCCCD’s generosity and hospitality played a key role in making this occasion possible.

AHRC Executive Director, Mr. Imad Hamad, delivered impassioned remarks, highlighting the significance of citizenship in a time of both national and global challenges. He spoke of the shared duty all citizens must honor the U.S. Constitution, uplift one another, and protect the values that make the United States a beacon of hope and freedom.

The program concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Naveed Ashraf, President of the American Pakistan Community Alliance (APCA), who congratulated the new citizens and thanked all those who contributed to the event’s success—including the U.S. Passport Agency, the Voter Registration Team, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department Color Guard, and Ms. Yasmeen Suri for her inspiring performance.

AHRC extends its deepest gratitude to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and USCIS for the honor of partnering to celebrate such a sacred milestone. These ceremonies are not just formalities—they are powerful reminders of what binds us as Americans: a belief in equality, liberty, and the never-ending pursuit of a more inclusive and just nation.

“Becoming an American citizen is not just about crossing a finish line—it’s about stepping into a lifelong journey of purpose, duty, and belonging,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “Becoming an American is more than a status—it’s a commitment to the values that unite us all." continued Hamad. "This ceremony is a reminder that America’s strength lies in its diversity—and in every citizen who calls this nation home." Concluded Hamad.