On May 26, 2023, Lucie Kazadi officially became a citizen of the United States after living in Kent, Ohio, for nine years as an immigrant from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Her accomplishment is not one that comes easily, as immigrants must pay hefty naturalization fees, become proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English, and pass a civics test on the U.S. government, history, and geography. Lucie’s story is just one of thousands of incredible narratives that embody the immigrant experience in America.

When Lucie first arrived in Kent, Ohio, her new community immediately felt different from the one she left behind in the DRC. In Ohio, she noticed that people were outside far less often than in her home country, as though no one lived there. Eager to meet people in her community, Lucie began knocking on her neighbor's doors and introducing herself. She recalls, “I was going door to door. I’m a newcomer, I need to talk, and my English was very bad. Nobody could understand me. I was talking with a signal.” Over time, her determination paid off as she improved her English and established meaningful connections within her new community.

Lucie’s journey took an inspiring turn when she began working as a lunch monitor in several Kent schools. Through her work, she formed bonds with students and teachers who would play a pivotal role in her citizenship pursuit. It was a fellow teacher who introduced Lucie to the International Institute of Akron’s citizenship classes after she expressed interest in becoming a U.S. citizen.

In her initial three months attending citizenship classes, Lucie faced moments of doubt, saying, “All the questions they was asking me, I say, ‘I don’t have the answer, oh my gosh,’ but my classmates know everything except for me.” Discouraged, Lucie took a break from classes, coming back three months later with a renewed sense of determination. The students in the citizenship class at the International Institute grew close, helping and cheering each other on as they prepped for the exam. Outside of class, Lucie began studying the questions on the civics test 20 minutes per day, even using work breaks to practice questions and English. Larie Shaw, IIA’s citizenship class teacher, said that Lucie was an incredibly determined woman and worked hard to get what she wanted.

Lucie’s dedication did not go unnoticed at work. The teachers at the schools she worked in became aware of her pursuit and offered support. They helped her practice English and quizzed her on the test questions. Months of diligent preparation and collaborations with friends, co-workers, and IIA teachers led to the defining moment in Lucie’s journey: May 26, 2023, her citizenship exam.

Middle Photo: Lucie with IIA Citizenship Class teacher, Larie Shaw

The day arrived, and Lucie, feeling nervous, asked a friend to drive her to the exam location in Cleveland. The immigration officer conducting the exam revealed that she had once been a teacher, instantly putting Lucie at ease, as her friends and co-workers were also educators. After completing the exam, Lucie received the news she had worked so tirelessly for – she had passed and was now a United States citizen.

Reflecting on her newfound citizenship, Lucie expressed, “I feel comfortable. I’m so glad. They told me if you become a citizen, you will have more opportunity.” Lucie’s most eagerly anticipated privilege as a citizen is the right to vote and participate in elections, allowing her to have a voice in shaping the future of the U.S.

In parting, Lucie offered a piece of advice to those considering the path to citizenship: “If you have the opportunity to do something, do it. Don’t wait.” Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination that immigrants like Lucie bring to the United States, enriching the country with their unique experiences and contributions. Lucie Kazadi’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who pursue their dreams and aspirations, no matter the obstacles they face along the way.