17 people in Charlotte became US citizens on Independence Day

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Some Charlotte families are not only celebrating America’s birthday Thursday, they’re also marking the day they became U.S. citizens.

The United States grew by 17 new citizens Thursday morning as they took the Oath of Allegiance on Independence Day during a naturalization ceremony at the Charlotte Museum of History.

“I will support and defend the Constitution and laws,” the candidates for citizenship said as part of their oath to the audience Thursday morning.

Every word was a promise.

“That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same,” said the candidates.

Davis Guzman came to the United States from Belize to be with his wife.

“I felt it deep down because everything that I had to say in that oath reflects my journey,” said Guzman. “I find the United States to be a nice country.”

When Guzman got to the U.S., he wanted more.

“I see America as not only a lot of opportunity but a land where I am happy, I’m generally happy here hence the reason I made that choice,” said Guzman.

He worked for this day for four years.

“I will perform work of national importance,” said the candidates during the Oath.

Guzman stood beside his fellow candidates for citizenship from 14 different countries.

“It took courage to do what I did, but I’m glad I did it, and there’s no regrets about it,” said Guzman.

They said the final words to complete the Oath.

“For my family, I think it means that we’re together forever,” said Guzman.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.