STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — The Berkshire Immigrant Center will host a swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 12, for more than two dozen immigrants who are becoming naturalized U.S. citizens.

 

The formal legal ceremony will take place on the grounds of Naumkeag. Immigrants living throughout the state, including those in Berkshire County, are expected to take part in the ceremony, along with their families.

 

"Many immigrants aspire to become US citizens so they can gain the security that citizenship provides, and so they can vote," BIC Executive Director Michelle Lopez said. "We congratulate the new Americans who will take the oath of citizenship in the Berkshires this month."

 

Becoming a naturalized citizen is very costly and can take years of waiting and extensive preparation, culminating in a rigorous oral interview and written test, she said.

 

Berkshire Money Management, based in Dalton, is the major sponsor for the event. MountainOne is also a sponsor and the Marketplace Kitchen is donating refreshments along with other local businesses.

 

BIC extended its gratitude to all who have supported the event.

 

Berkshire Immigrant Center is the only nonprofit in the county dedicated solely to meeting the unique needs of the estimated 10,000 foreign-born residents who live and work in the county. It is located at 67 East St. in Pittsfield.

 

The center — which is celebrating 25 years of service to the community in 2022 — serves more than 850 immigrants and their families annually. BIC provides immigration legal services, relief aid, and free classes in beginning English language and citizenship test preparation. For more information: berkshireic.org and follow BIC on Facebook and Instagram.