Many people wrongly assume that the thousands of 'Legal Residents' in the United States that do not become Naturalized Citizens actually choose not to take the citizenship test. However, for many it is that the cost of becoming a U.S. Citizen is cost prohibitive. Currently, the application process for a legal resident to apply for and to take the test of citizenship is $675.00 (which is due to increase over the next few months).
This is why the Citizenship and Naturalization Class of Gloria Dei and the Northwest Indiana Hispanic Mission Society is having a fundraiser to help current students who have spent a year studying American Civics, as well as English, pay for the cost of the application.
Our fundraiser, "A Dream to Belong," will be held Wednesday, December 8th, from 5 to 8pm at Casa del Roma, 712 Calumet in Valparaiso. We will have Mexican Folkloric Dance, Live Music, Food, Cash Bar, a special quiz with current citizen's knowledge of American Civics will be challenged by some of our students and a Special Speech by Judge Julia Jent on what it means to be and to become a Naturalized Citizen.
The event is sponsored by Harper and Rogers Attorneys and suggested donation is $20.00. Any questions please contact Jesse Harper at (219) 762-9538 or (323) 493-1017.
Photo: Paula Angon and Lina Duis with instructor Jesse Harper at a Porter County Commissioners' meeting.