Coming to America, even in tough times

Becoming a citizen
This morning at the Fitzgerald Theater in Saint Paul, hundreds of Americans who are literally delighted and optimistic about this country.
MPR/Bob Collins

As a nation, we've seen better days. The U.S. is dealing with the worst recession since the Great Depression and we're fighting two wars simultaneously.

But, this morning at the Fitzgerald Theater in Saint Paul, Tom Crann spent time with hundreds of Americans who are literally delighted and optimistic about this country. As of today, they're brand new U.S. Citizens.

More than 400 people of 56 different nationalities raised their right hands to take the Oath of Allegiance for Naturalized Citizens.

After the ceremony, the scene in the lobby reminded me of graduation day. Family and friends snapping pictures and congratulating the new Americans proudly holding their official certificates.

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