Sigma Alpha Iota

sai-national.org • FALL 2017 • PAN PIPES 29 SAI AWARDS 2017 PHIL ANTHROPIE S Welcoming New Citizens with Song F or most of us, attending a Naturalization Ceremony never crosses our minds. Why would it? We were born into our citizenship. I attended my first ceremony when my son was a Boy Scout, and his troop served as Color Guard for the ceremony as one step in attaining the Citizenship in the Community Badge. I was deeply touched by the ceremony, the excitement in the room, families dressed for a special event and offering support to their loved ones, the number of countries represented in the room, and the honor of witnessing people who worked so hard to earn their citizenship. Quite honestly, I was near tears for much of the ceremony and was grateful I took time off work to watch my son serve his community; I received so much more than I expected. What could make this beautiful ceremony more meaningful? How about SAIs putting their talents to good use by singing the National Anthem and other patriotic songs with our new citizens? at is just what the Ft. Wayne Alumnae Chapter did in November 2016 and April 2017. Dorothy Kittaka spearheaded these events aer being contacted by Magistrate Judge Susan Collin's Office on the recommendation of another SAI, Linda Kanzawa. "I thought that this was a bigger opportunity for SAI's to join me so that we would all experience a ceremony of great importance in our USA Immigration process," Kittaka, a 50+ year SAI member recalls. "We are a nation of immigrants and this is what we are all about, this is what makes us strong. My father came from Japan when he was only 14 years old and worked very hard to learn English and go to school. My father became a citizen years later and I was not able to attend his nationalization, but seeing and participating in this ceremony made me realize even more that we must cherish our freedom and care for each other." e ceremony was held during work hours which made it difficult for many of our members to attend but perfect for one homeschooling SAI, Jennifer Newton, and her four children. "is experience was amazing," Newton said. "What an honor to be present at, and to assist with, the Naturalization of new American citizens. It was thrilling and humbling all at the same time. [My children] loved it! ey were so excited to share in a historical event and they were happy for the new citizens." Five SAIs were present at each of the ceremonies with many expressing a desire to be involved with future opportunities. When it was time for the singing, Dorothy stood at the podium and led the singing, conducting the entire courtroom, while her SAI sisters supported the group. Everyone sang! It was one of the most moving musical experiences in my life," Kittaka said. "All of us were very moved by the ceremony, especially that we added the emotional, musical memory for those who became citizens of the USA. It was a pleasure to be a part of such an important moment in the lives of those who have chosen to live and be citizens of our country. Seeing their faces as they proudly accepted their certificates and hearing them sing the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America was so touching." "It's very rewarding to be a part of dreams coming true," past national President Ginny Johnson said. At each ceremony, 40-50 people became citizens of this great country and SAI had an important role in adding depth, meaning, and support to their experience. So how can other Chapters get involved and offer their services? Start with a simple internet search for, "Naturalization Ceremonies" in your community or contact the local US Court in your area. With a little effort and investigating, your chapter can also help bring the gi of music to new American citizens. As our members have testified, it is a very rewarding experience — Jackie Hinsey, Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter President Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter members with Magistrate Judge Susan Collin (center), from left, Lindsay Platt, Jean Ross, Pauline Eversole, Dorothy Kittaka, and Ginny Johnson performed at an April 7, 2017 Naturalization Ceremony.

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