Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes on Friday welcomed and congratulated new United States citizens at a naturalization ceremony at the Muhammad Ali Center.
Grimes welcomed 197 new citizens from 47 countries and spoke to the new citizens and their families about the duties of civic engagement, voter participation, and commitment to improving Kentucky.
“I am as honored and humbled to be here with you today – my 97th naturalization ceremony – as I was at the first,” Grimes told the new citizens. “I find it fitting to be here today — this week we celebrate the 56th Anniversary of the March on Washington this week, honoring the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a man who fought for equality of opportunity for all individuals.”
U.S. District Court Judge David J. Hale led the proceedings and issued a challenge to the new Americans to be active citizens.
Grimes encouraged the new citizens to register to vote using her office’s GoVoteKY.com online voter registration portal.
“Register to vote today and use your voice. Cast your vote in every election and in every race you are able. We need you, in this Commonwealth and in this nation, now more than ever,” said Grimes.
This ceremony was held in conjunction with Louisville’s 17th annual WorldFest, one of the country’s largest international festivals.
The Secretary of State’s staff attend each naturalization ceremony held in Kentucky to greet new citizens and answer questions regarding voting and registration.
The deadline to register to vote in the 2019 general election is Monday, October 7th. Visit sos.ky.gov for more information.
When is the next naturalization ceremony in Louisville. As the Kentucky Society DAR State Chair for the Flaf of the United States of America. I would very much like to attend the rest of the ceremonies for my 3 year term..I believe as the DAR Chair of our Flag! Committee which includes “”Our Pledge and “”Our National Anthem “” , it is appropriate for me to be at these ceremonies
If you could just provide a list with dates and plz we
THANK YOU
Janice Elaine Ramsey Lear