By Nathan Mueller
Observer & Eccentric
Jirmeen Jan Sisilian waved the small American flag she held in her hand and exclaimed “thank you God” as she was handed her certificate of U.S. citizenship.
Sisilian fought back tears as she talked about leaving Iraq five years ago and the opportunities and safety she has been afforded in America.
The Madison Heights resident said she doesn’t cry tears of sadness anymore, but rather tears of joy.
“I am a newborn American,” she said. “I have new life and new freedom.”
Sisilian was among the 100 people from 31 different countries who were sworn in as Americans at the Naturalization Ceremony for New Citizens on Friday morning at the Southfield Civic Center.
Mick Dedvukaj, district director of the Unites States Citizenship and Immigration Services, said the day was not only important for those in attendance but for the country as well.
“The diversity makes our country stronger and reaffirms the fact this country remains a magnet for people who want to come here and contribute their ideas, their skills and their talents to make this country a better place,” he said. “America has the unmatched ability to make dreams come true.