Story perspectives

Rockland College Celebrates New Citizens After Ceremony Resumption

12/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 5, 2025, Rockland Community College hosted a naturalization ceremony for over two dozen new U.S. citizens from 14 countries.
The ceremonies had been paused in parts of New York due to a federal review.
After bipartisan criticism, including advocacy from Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), USCIS reversed its decision and allowed ceremonies to resume.
Mariana Azarias, a Brazilian-born participant, expressed pride after a decade living in the United States.

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Story summary

On December 5, 2025, Rockland Community College hosted a naturalization ceremony for over two dozen new U.S. citizens from 14 countries.
The ceremonies had been paused in parts of New York due to a federal review.
After bipartisan criticism, including advocacy from Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), USCIS reversed its decision and allowed ceremonies to resume.
Mariana Azarias, a Brazilian-born participant, expressed pride after a decade living in the United States.