Vladimir’s number one supporter and fan is his wife, Lisa.
Vladmir, a native of Chile, took his oath of U.S. Citizenship at the Heinz History Center on Thursday, November 21, 2024. He was joined by 48 other men and women representing 27 different countries from around the globe. Nearly every continent was represented! The ceremony was conducted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Vladimir takes his Oath of Allegiance alongside another new citizen.
Vladmir, like the other new citizens, had to learn a great deal to achieve this goal, which USCIS staff acknowledged at the ceremony. They each had to pass a test and interview to move on to the oath ceremony. Vladmir and the others had to be proficient in English and learn about U.S. History and government. Learning a new language, new culture, and new systems can be overwhelming. With support from family and friends, life in the U.S. can be very enjoyable and rewarding!
In addition to his wife, Lisa, Vladmir’s Citizenship teacher, Tina, was present to cheer for him. Family and friends were welcomed by the Heinz History Center Staff and encouraged to soak in this special moment. In addition, USCIS had some special guests present to help the citizens with voter registration—a key reason many immigrants become U.S. Citizens. Heinz History Staff invited families to stay and tour the amazing museum dedicated to Western Pennsylvania.
We congratulate Vladimir on this achievement. “He was a great student in class,” notes his teacher Tina Burns. “He also started his own business as an electrician.” His contributions to our community will continue to be important. He and the other new citizens remind us that the United States is a land of immigrants!
Instructor Tina Burns helped Vladmir prepare for his citizenship journey.
Literacy Pittsburgh (formerly Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council) helps create better lives through learning. Recognized as a national leader in adult and family literacy, Literacy Pittsburgh is the largest provider of adult basic education in Allegheny and Beaver Counties. Last year, Literacy Pittsburgh helped more than 4,000 individuals acquire the skills needed to reach their fullest potential in life and participate productively in their communities. Literacy Pittsburgh provides free, personalized instruction in workforce readiness, high school diploma test preparation, digital literacy, English language learning, math, reading, and family literacy through one-to-one and small class instruction. Founded in 1982, it serves local adults through numerous neighborhood locations and its Downtown Pittsburgh Learning Center.
