17 New Americans Take Oath of Citizenship in Macon Courtroom

People from across the globe become U.S. citizens in naturalization ceremony

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, colorful silkscreen illustration of the American flag icon repeated in a grid, capturing the celebratory energy of new citizens taking the oath of allegiance.The vibrant naturalization ceremony in Macon celebrates the diverse journeys of new American citizens.Macon Today

In a naturalization ceremony held at the federal courthouse in Macon, Georgia, 17 people from countries like Thailand, Bangladesh, and the Philippines took the oath of citizenship and became new Americans. The journey to this moment was filled with sacrifice, patience, and perseverance for each of the new citizens, some of whom arrived as young children and others who waited decades to achieve this milestone.

Why it matters

The naturalization of these 17 individuals represents the diverse tapestry of America, as people from all over the world come together to pursue the American dream. This ceremony highlights the importance of immigration and the vital role it plays in shaping the country's culture and economy.

The details

The new citizens ranged in age and background, with some arriving as toddlers and others waiting years to complete the citizenship process. Applicants must hold a green card for at least five years, pass a civics test, and clear extensive background checks before being invited to the naturalization ceremony. For many, the journey was filled with uncertainty and fear, but on this day, they were able to put those concerns aside and celebrate their new status as Americans.

  • The naturalization ceremony took place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at the federal courthouse in Macon, Georgia.
  • Erica Yang, one of the new citizens, arrived in the U.S. as a 1-year-old refugee from a camp in Thailand.

The players

Erica Yang

A new American citizen who arrived in the U.S. as a 1-year-old refugee from a camp in Thailand. She had been hesitant to pursue citizenship due to fear of the cost, process, and uncertainty, but felt it was time to take that step with the support of her husband and children.

Sanjida Pervin

A new American citizen originally from Bangladesh who had already gone through the citizenship process herself. On Wednesday, she watched her mother, Kenneth Masud, who emigrated from the Philippines, take the oath of citizenship as well.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It held me back. But I have my kids and my husband, and I feel like it's time.”

— Erica Yang, New American Citizen

The takeaway

This naturalization ceremony in Macon, Georgia serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and diversity of the American spirit. By welcoming 17 new citizens from across the globe, the community celebrates the hard-won journeys of these individuals and the invaluable contributions that immigrants make to the fabric of the United States.