The federal government’s cancellation of U.S. naturalization ceremonies in several New York counties is drawing criticism, even from some Republicans in the state.
Federal officials indefinitely canceled an upcoming U.S. naturalization ceremony in Binghamton, leaving dozens of families in limbo ahead of taking their much-anticipated oaths of allegiance to become U.S. citizens, Mayor Jared Kraham said.
“Now that the government shutdown is over, I’m calling on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to work quickly to reschedule our community’s naturalization ceremony,” said Kraham, adding that “any further delay means playing politics with people’s lives.”
The Republican added in his statement that “the Trump administration’s handling of immigration matters continues to raise concerns.”
The USCIS sent a letter to the American Civic Association stating the ceremony would be canceled, association Executive Director and CEO Hussein Adams said. The USCIS indicated the cancellations were a result of a jurisdictional issues with the courts, Adams said.
“It’s more than just a ceremony, you know? It’s one of the the most patriotic symbols,” said Adams.
In a statement, state Sen. Chris Ryan said the USCIS had stopped all naturalization ceremonies in seven upstate counties, including Onondaga County. The Democrat said the county has held 20 ceremonies so far in 2025, with at least two more scheduled through the end of the year.
“While maintaining secure borders is important, discouraging immigrants from becoming lawful U.S. citizens runs counter to our nation’s values,” Ryan said in a statement. “I strongly urge the USCIS and the Federal Administration to reconsider their decision and resume naturalization ceremonies in Upstate New York.”
State Attorney General Letitia James sent a letter to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow asking about canceled naturalization ceremonies in Broome, Onondaga, Rockland, Schenectady, Tompkins, Washington and Westchester counties and seeking answers on or before Dec. 4.
“This sudden change has caused alarm and disappointment from a bipartisan group of county officials, local leaders, and community members,” James wrote. “They received this news on short notice, without adequate explanation, and without any effort to address and resolve any obstacles. I ask that you reconsider, and work with our county leadership who will continue to play their part in organizing these important ceremonies.”
Also, Rep. Mike Lawler last week sent a letter to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding the cancellation of naturalization ceremonies in Rockland and Westchester counties. He said his wife immigrated to the U.S., and attending a naturalization ceremony marked one of the happiest days of their lives.
“Stealing that same joy from other to-be-citizens is wrong, plain and simple,” the congressman wrote.
Kraham said the cancellation of this month’s ceremony robbed individuals of a patriotic experience that completes their American citizenship. He said he’s participated in numerous local naturalization ceremonies.
“They are a snapshot of America at its best – moving displays of patriotism, the pursuit of a better life, and the defining diversity that makes us stronger as a country,” he said.
Lawler said he spoke with USCIS leadership and was optimistic about a timely reversal that will restore naturalization ceremonies to Rockland and Westchester counties.
