Becoming a Citizen
Muhammad Hassan came to the US as a refugee from Syria when he was just a teenager. A decade later, this year he enters the MA program in the Divinity School. He moved into DDH on May 29 and on July 31, he became a US citizen. He offers these reflections about that day:
After a decade of living without a home, without a country to call my own—a decade of statelessness—I had my naturalization oath ceremony today and have finally become a citizen of the United States of America. The oath ceremony today on July 31st 2024 was more than just a formality; it was a moment of belonging, a culmination of years of struggle and hope.
Standing there, reciting the oath, I felt a wave of emotions—relief, pride, and a deep sense of gratitude. It’s hard to describe what it means to go from statelessness to citizenship. For so long, I existed in a liminal space, neither here nor there, without a place to truly belong. But today, all of that changed.
As I held the certificate in my hands, I thought about the journey that brought me here. The countless challenges, the moments of doubt, the endless waiting. But I also thought about the people who helped me along the way—friends, advocates, and even strangers who showed kindness when I needed it most. This citizenship is not just a piece of paper; it’s a symbol to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community.
Today, I am not just celebrating a legal status. I am celebrating the realization of a dream, the affirmation of my identity, and the opportunity to contribute to a society that values diversity and inclusion. I am filled with hope and excitement for the future, ready to embrace the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.
This is more than just a personal milestone; it’s a reminder that, despite the hardships, there is always a path forward. To anyone out there still struggling, still searching for a place to call home—never lose hope. The journey may be long and difficult, but the destination is worth every step.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey. Today, I am proud to say: I am a citizen of the United States of America.