Immigration is, and will continue to be, a controversial topic.

The least controversial aspect, however, is naturalization. Becoming a U.S. citizen is the pinnacle of my practice, and it is the pinnacle of the immigration process.

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Last week, I was honored to be asked to be the keynote speaker for the swearing-in of 30 new citizens at a courthouse in the suburbs of Philadelphia.

These were my remarks:

“First, I wanted to thank Judge Whelan for inviting me to come and speak to you today. It is a great honor.

Most people, when asked to give an address before an audience say that “it is a great honor,” and I am sure that they mean it.

But for me, I can assure you that this is something special. I have practiced immigration law for almost 30 years, and in that time I have been to many naturalization ceremonies, usually accompanying one of my clients.

But I was never before asked to be a part of the actual ceremony. Today, I feel as if we are sharing this incredible, deeply important experience together.

This is a day to celebrate all of you. I do not know you personally, but I think I do know........

© Yuma Sun