Announcement
The IRC in Boise's Immigration team continues to work intensively on reaching new populations in need of protected immigration status. The team recently traveled to Twin Falls, holding an open workshop that resulted in 37 completed US citizenship applications (and an extensive waitlist for the team to return to!). Our thanks to community partners at Concordia Law, University of Idaho College of Law Immigration Clinic, and La Posada Inc. for assisting in this endeavor.
Shadi Ismail proudly holds up the papers declaring him a US citizen.
Photo: Madeline Rose Scott/IRC
Meanwhile, the IRC in Boise was proud to celebrate Shadi Ismail and Ramona Flook on becoming US citizens. Shadi, a refugee originally from Syria, stated that "to me, US citizenship means that I can be who I am and not live in fear of being punished for who I am." Ramona, an immigrant from Canada, was able to apply for citizenship with the IRC in Boise thanks to the money raised by fundraiser Erin McClure's "Paper Plates" event.
Ramona waves a US flag at her swearing-in ceremony.
Photo: Madeline Rose Scott/IRC
Ramona wrote a letter to Boise's Immigration team upon achieving her citizenship:
“This past Thursday was a whirlwind! The swearing in ceremony was emotional, to say the least. My children and a few friends were able to attend as I took my oath. I can never say “thank you” enough.
I received my packet with my certificate AND voter registration card. Now, my path is clear. I will exercise my right to vote. I will battle hunger and homelessness, especially in my town of Boise...
To the wonderful sponsors, thank you. Thank you for the opportunity that I could’ve never afforded on my own. I am a proud American now. I will make you proud and will never let you or my community down. If I could hug all of you, I would.
With deepest fondness,
Ramona Flook"
If you want to help a refugee or immigrant achieve protected status, donate to the IRC in Boise here. Comment that you want your donation to go towards the Immigration team.