7 Tulsa Residents Take Oath, Become Naturalized U.S. Citizens

Several people living in Tulsa raised their right hands on Thursday and made the ultimate commitment to the country they now call home. Former immigrants representing seven different countries were naturalized at Tulsa City Hall, and they said they’re excited for new beginnings.  

Mayor G.T. Bynum said the narrative of the nation remains the same. People from all walks of life wanting to come to the land of opportunity are helping shape and define what it means to be an American.  

Dalila Stafford recently became a U.S. citizen and said her parents immigrated from Mexico when she was just eight-months-old. 

"Here we have freedom of speech, we have freedom of religion,” said Stafford. “There's just so many opportunities." 

Stafford said her parents sacrificed so much to better their lives, and now she's finally committing to the country she calls home. 

"My way to thank them in return is to become a citizen and continue that legacy,” said Stafford. “I want my children to grow up in a better place and to have all the freedoms that I've had." 

The ceremony only lasts about half-an-hour and the oath, just minutes, but the process takes months of discipline. Tulsa's Chief Resilience Officer Krystal Reyes said she was in high school when her mom was naturalized.  

"I remember watching her study for the exam, and it took a long time and every day; I am grateful for what she has done,” Reyes said.  

Mayor Bynum said it's not lost on him that the freedoms he and his family have are because of the decisions his ancestors made.  

"You're a historic figure in the life of your family,” said Mayor Bynum. “People who don't even exist today will have opportunities because of the decision you've made." 

Stafford said citizenship to her means having a voice, voting, and maybe running for office one day. 

"The main reason I became a U.S. citizen is so I can be a part of something greater," Stafford said.   

Naturalization ceremonies are held at Tulsa City Hall on the second Thursday of every month.  

For more information on becoming a U.S. citizen, click here.