Fort Union National Monument is pleased to announce its first special event of the year. A Naturalization Ceremony to be held on May 8, 2015 from 1pm-2pm. This is an opportunity for some to become the first in their family to earn American Citizenship. This Oath of Allegiance will be taken by applicants as they will be granted Citizenship. As new US citizens, they will now be entitled to the same rights, obligations, and opportunities as all other Americans. These new citizens will have the ability to vote, hold public office, carry a US passport, serve on a jury, work for the US government, and serve as an officer in the armed forces.
Historically for many people, during the Civil War, volunteering to serve in the Union Army led to citizenship. African American and Irish American soldiers influenced the modern vision of national citizenship that developed during the Civil War era. By bearing arms for the Union, African Americans and Irish Americans exhibited their loyalty to the United States and their capacity to act as citizens; they strengthened their American identity in the process. Members of both groups served at Fort Union. Today it is no longer a requirement to serve in the Armed Forces to earn citizenship. Come and visit Fort Union and enjoy this unforgettable event.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
