JULY 2, 2007

Representatives of Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land will be on hand to emphasize the importance of voting to new U.S. citizens during a July 4 naturalization ceremony at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids.

Land's office is one of several agencies welcoming the newest members of the American family as they take their citizenship oaths. The event is at 5 p.m. in Ah-Nab-Awen Park along the Grand River in front of the Ford Presidential Museum, 303 Pearl 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 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. Approximately 150 immigrants representing 46 countries will be represented.

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