USCIS is putting the final touches on our participation in Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW), an annual event on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This year’s event will take place from May 6 to 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. PSRW is set aside to honor the men and women who serve our nation in the federal, state, county and local government. Other celebrations recognizing public servants are taking place throughout the country as well. This year’s theme is “Innovation and Opportunity,” highlighting exciting technology and recruiting the next generation of public servants.

To celebrate PSRW, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro Mayorkas administered the Oath of Allegiance to 25 candidates who became America’s newest citizens during a special naturalization ceremony on the National Mall.

Here are a few words he had to share:

“Our nation is a beacon of hope and opportunity for men and women from around the world who yearn to realize their potential and pursue their dreams. It is through the talents of all our citizens, from wherever they may come, that we as a nation remain at the forefront of innovation. We welcome today’s new citizens as they join and continue in this proud tradition.”

This year’s celebration recognizes innovation and opportunities in public service, and is open to the public. This naturalization ceremony is the highlight of activities USCIS has planned for PSRW to educate the public about citizenship and immigration and inspire them to choose the path of public service.

For more on events and programs, check the Public Service Recognition Week website.