In The News

Today, the Grand Haven Tribune published a story on the naturalization ceremony that took place on Monday afternoon in Grand Haven. Congressman Huizenga attended this incredible event, led the pledge of allegiance, and congratulated 61 new citizens on becoming a part of our great nation. Below are excerpt's of the Tribune's story which can be read in it's entirety here.

A Patriotic Pledge

There was an air of celebration on Monday afternoon during a naturalization ceremony held at Loutit District Library. Monday’s ceremony was the second of two naturalization events that were held at the library, with the first taking place Friday afternoon. ...

Over the two-day naturalization event, roughly 60 countries were represented with about 120 residents becoming U.S. citizens. During the event, attendees were able to hear personal anecdotes from a variety of elected officials, each who shared their own tale about immigration. U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, said his family is no stranger to the immigration process. “I was sitting where you are not that long ago. My wife immigrated from Canada and we got married. She remained a Canadian citizen while we had children,” Huizenga said. “We all have different journeys that we go through to get here.

He noted that his family’s journey isn’t over. ”(My wife’s) sister and brother-in-law both immigrated from Canada, and had been working here. They just this past week passed their tests,“ Huizenga said. “They, too, are on that path to citizenship, joining two of their daughters who were born here and two who are becoming naturalized.”

Huizenga noted that he enjoyed his participation in Monday’s ceremony. “This is one of the neatest things I’ve done as a Congressman,” he said. Huizenga, speaking to the citizens, their families, and onlookers, said he was there to say “welcome” to the new citizens.