MARCH 25, 2004

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land will emphasize the importance of voting to more than 700 new U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony in Holland on Friday.

Land is one of several dignitaries welcoming the latest members of the American family as they take their oaths of citizenship. The event is at 10 a.m. at the Holland Civic Center auditorium, 150 W. 8th St.

"This is a special moment in the lives of our new countrymen, and I’m proud to be a part of it," Land said. "They have worked hard to become Americans. But I want them to know that their responsibilities don’t stop here. Democracy depends on an informed and engaged citizenry. I will encourage them to make their voices heard by exercising their right to vote."

Land, who also serves as Michigan’s chief election officer, will have a voter registration table on site for the convenience of the newly sworn citizens.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Bureau, part of the Department of Homeland Security, is conducting the ceremony. Also expected to participate are U.S. Rep. Peter Hoekstra and Holland Mayor Albert McGeehan.

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