Hundreds swear U.S. citizenship at Hylton Performing Arts Center

There was a first today at the Hylton Performing Arts Center: A massive naturalization ceremony for nearly 450 new U.S. citizens.

A line of people backed out the front door of the performing arts center at 8:30 a.m. today. What is normally an empty parking lot was full of cars.

Inside, people donned dresses and suits, and smiles. Each of them checked in at a front table, were given a folder with information, and a small U.S. flag.

This morning’s ceremony was the first of three planned this week at the Hylton. Tonight, 450 more people are expected to come to the center to become naturalized citizens. Tomorrow morning, another 450 will arrive.

The newly minted citizens come from 72 countries. Each apply for citizenship (about a 90 day process), then take tests in civics, reading, reading and writing. If they pass, they’re notified to come to the ceremony.

Today’s ceremony is one of handful held each month. The majority of the naturalization ceremonies held are smaller in size.

The size of the venue determines the number of people at the ceremony. Federal naturalization officials found the Hylton and are now hooked on it becoming a regular venue.

“I Googled it,” said Jackie Suazo, of the Immigration Services office in Fairfax. “I saw how beautiful it was and I said ‘why not come and naturalize new citizens in a beautiful environment like this?”

If they Hylton will have her, they’ll be back to hold more naturalization ceremonies like the ones held today, added Suazo.