LOS ANGELES — In a picturesque setting with the iconic Hollywood sign in view, nine immigrants from diverse nations, including Lebanon, Germany, Taiwan, and Mexico, participated in a naturalization ceremony to officially become American citizens. This outdoor event took place among the scenic hills overlooking Los Angeles, marking a significant achievement for these individuals.

As the U.S. presidential election approaches, many of the new citizens expressed their eagerness to vote and shared their preferences for the 2024 election. One woman from France, during the ceremony, actively accessed the California voter registration website to ensure her participation in the upcoming electoral process.

To achieve naturalization, immigrants typically need to maintain residency in the U.S. with a green card for at least five years and successfully pass tests on English and civics. The newly naturalized citizens expressed their aspirations to travel using an American passport, engage in political matters, and most importantly, to feel fully integrated into the society they cherish and have long considered home.

Chia Hsin Tsai, a 33-year-old originally from Taiwan, made the journey to the United States 11 years ago for her master’s degree. Now a marketing manager in the food sector, she applied for citizenship in March, wanting to formalize her connection to the country. She expressed her intention to vote in the upcoming presidential election but chose not to disclose her candidate of choice. “Becoming part of the country that I’m living in makes me feel special,” Tsai explained. “Living here gives me the right to vote and all that comes with it.”

Her boyfriend, Eric Boyce, shared his admiration for her determination, noting that her dedication to her career and her concerns about her visa situation were truly inspiring. “She became an American not because of a test, but because she has embraced the country for over a decade,” he remarked.

Floriane Turcat, 37, shared her journey from France, where she was drawn to American films and had dreams of becoming an actress. Now a performer based in Los Angeles with her web developer husband, Turcat eagerly awaited her oath of citizenship. While in line, she confirmed her intention to register to vote in California well ahead of the presidential election. Her support leans towards Vice President Kamala Harris, especially regarding women’s rights and reproductive health. “I want to be part of the political movement of this country,” Turcat said. “Even if California is predominantly Democratic, it’s vital for me to participate and express my beliefs.”

Having lived in the U.S. for seven years, Turcat has always viewed the country as a symbol of freedom, expressing her excitement about finally being able to register to vote.

Phoenix De Los Angeles Lopez Daal has long desired U.S. citizenship, holding strong beliefs in the nation’s principles, such as free speech and religious freedom. Although the chance to vote wasn’t his primary motivation for naturalization, he does hope to support former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Lopez Daal, who moved to the U.S. from Venezuela at the age of six, has observations about the political landscape, noting a significant shift toward the left he perceives in both American and Venezuelan politics.

“I’ve witnessed a great Venezuela transform, and I see echoes of that in what’s happening with the Democrats here,” he stated, cautioning against repeating history.

Dennis Beier, a 46-year-old film producer from Germany, saw the U.S. as a land of freedom and opportunity during his upbringing in Berlin. He looks forward to casting his vote, hoping to support Harris due to his concerns about the January 6 attack on the Capitol. “It’s imperative to protect democracy,” he asserted, emphasizing the importance of respecting electoral outcomes.

Beier’s admiration for the U.S. began during his first visit to New York in 2001, which he describes as love at first sight. He was motivated to naturalize not only to connect with his American children but also to join his Canadian wife, who recently became a U.S. citizen. Changes in German laws made it easier for him to acquire dual citizenship, and he expressed his relief and joy that the day had finally arrived.