Naturalization ceremony welcomes new U.S. Citizens in Cape Girardeau

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – A celebration of naturalization took place Wednesday at the Rush Hudson Limbaugh Sr. U.S. Courthouse, where Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe and State Treasurer Vivek Malek helped welcome new citizens of the United States of America.

For many, the moment marked the end of a long journey.

“It’s a pretty long journey, for ten years, and it means a lot,” said Vamsikrishana Chalamalasetty, a new citizen. “I’m the first immigrant from my family.”

Vivek Malek, the State Treasurer of Missouri shared his own story of immigrating to the U.S. to attend Southeast Missouri State University and pursuing the American dream.

“Through the journey, the value of citizenship it’s sometimes what we take for granted. If you’re born here,” Malek said. “As long as you keep your faith, family, and hard work, you can achieve anything that you want.” Adding, ” a lot of people sometimes say, we don’t know if the American dream is alive and well. I say it is, because I have lived it. I’m living it.”

Chalamalasetty said Malek’s words resonated with him.

“And like Vivek said, I have two bags with $375 in cash. And I came here with my parents’ support and family and then my wife, my uncle, everybody is here and it means a lot,” he said.

Malek said naturalization is an experience that stays with new Americans for life.

“So I would say this is an experience that anybody who goes through it will remember for the rest of their lives and they are able to pass on those stories to the next generations, which will cherish them as well,” Malek said.

After receiving their official documentation, new citizens were invited to register to vote, something Malek described as a vital step in their responsibilities as Americans.

“You have taken a vow to be loyal to the United States, to defend the liberty, to defend the freedom of the country, to stand in need, whether it is war or peace time,” Malek said. “And respect that flag and do your civic duties as they come to you, whether in the form of a jury duty or being a good citizen and becoming a model for others.”

He goes on to say, “It’s also our responsibility to vote in the elections and make sure that you are aware what you are voting for. Make sure you educate yourself on different issues. That’s how you participate in democracy. Have your voice heard, whether by voting, whether by running for an office or making a petition of citizens to the government officials.”

Chalamalasetty said he is eager to give back to his new country.

“And it’s a great achievement for me to become part of a great country,” he said. “And I’m looking forward to providing it back, give it back to the country. They gave me a lot.”