MAY 21, 2007

Representatives of Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land will be on hand to assist new U.S. citizens with voter registration during a Wednesday, May 23 naturalization ceremony in Detroit.

Land's office is one of several agencies welcoming the new Americans as they take their citizenship oaths. The event is at 10 a.m. at the Cobo Center, One Washington Blvd.

"This is a special moment for our new countrymen and we're proud to be a part of it," Land said. "They have worked hard to become members of our American family but I want them to know that their responsibilities don't stop here. Democracy depends on an informed and engaged citizenry. That's why I encourage them to exercise their right to vote and make their voices heard."

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. In addition to assisting at naturalization ceremonies, Land promotes voter registration by sending the Mobile Branch Office to colleges and universities. People also may register at their local clerk's office, a Secretary of State branch office or by mail.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Bureau, part of the Department of Homeland Security, is conducting the ceremony.

Related Link
> Michigan Voter Information Center