KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Before You Vote is an ongoing project by 10News to promote and inspire your participation in the democratic process. Be a good citizen! Take time to vote!
In the City County Building in downtown Knoxville, it's standing room-only in the Main Assembly Room. Dozens of families and friends look on as more than 150 people from around the world prepare to pledge their allegiance to the United States of America.
A U.S. magistrate judge stands before the audience to address the soon-to-be US citizens.
"You will have the freedom of speech, the freedom of worship, the freedom to think on your own and form your own opinions," said U.S. Magistrate Judge Debra C. Poplin.
In the crowd sits Suheir Tabanja. The mother of three moved with her husband from the West Bank in the Middle East to East Tennessee five years ago with the hope of new and more opportunities that the American dream has to offer.
"The first reason we came here was for a better education for me and my kids and then for a safe life for me, my kids and my husband," said Tabanja. "Everything we are looking for is for a better future."
The process of becoming a naturalized US citizen can take months to years. The 10-step process includes government forms, a civics test, an interview, and fees averaging $760.00. The final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
Tabanja, along with a chorus of other voices, recite the pledge with their right hands raised.
After the ceremony, she greets her family, waving a small flag, celebrating her future and that of her young daughters.
This wife, mother and new American looks forward to the freedoms of citizenship, one in particular.
"I never voted in my life, in my country," said Tabanja.
U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Varlan has presided over dozens of naturalization ceremonies in East Tennessee throughout his 20-year career in the federal judicial system. As the grandson of Greek immigrants turned US citizens, he recognizes Americans' right and responsibility to vote.
"Sometimes it is taken for granted if we look at the percentages of people who vote in elections. Certainly, that is something we encourage at the ceremonies, to engage in the democratic process.," said Varlan.
After the ceremony, a booth is set up outside the assembly room. Tabanja and her fellow U.S. citizens are offered the opportunity to register to vote. It's Tabanja's first act as an American.
"I am so excited. I can't even describe it. I am so happy and excited about the future that is coming and what is waiting for me as an American Citizen."
