Duc Cong Luong's path to becoming a U.S. citizen has been long and challenging. He immigrated to the U.S. over 30 years ago through his father’s employment with Exxon, and Duc has always dreamed of obtaining his citizenship. However, he faced a significant struggle: his limited English skills. While speaking wasn't a major hurdle for him, he found writing to be particularly challenging. This barrier led him to delay his N-400 application for many years, focusing instead on work and supporting his family.
Despite his reservations, Duc's wife and son, who proudly serve in the military, encouraged him to take the leap and apply for naturalization. They often reminded him that during family gatherings, everyone held a U.S. passport except for him, which weighed heavily on his heart. Their support was unwavering, but Duc still needed that extra push to take action.
That’s where the Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) stepped in. Through community outreach, CMAA connected with Duc and offered the encouragement he needed. They provided a citizenship class via Zoom, which allowed him to improve his writing skills and build the confidence necessary to complete his application. With CMAA’s guidance and resources, Duc finally felt ready to apply for citizenship.
On August 13, 2024, Duc achieved his dream by passing the citizenship exam and receiving his Naturalization Certificate during his Oath Ceremony. Reflecting on his journey, Duc expressed immense gratitude to CMAA, stating that without their support, he likely would not have become a U.S. citizen. Now, he looks forward to accessing the benefits that come with citizenship, not just for himself but for his entire family.
Duc’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of community support and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams. We celebrate his accomplishment and the new opportunities that await him!
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