New U.S. citizens share hopes for future immigrants

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- More than 1,300 immigrants took an oath Wednesday morning and became U.S. citizens.

The naturalization ceremony happened inside the M.O. Campbell Center in North Harris County.

Eyewitness News spoke with many of the new Americans. Some fled violent crimes. Others wanted a better job. All though said they saw something special in the Red, White, and Blue.

For Jose Alves, he came to the United States almost 20 years ago. Alves said the ceremony marked a big day in his life.

"It's a privilege to be an American. It's a privilege to be in the US," said Alves. "It's a pleasure, I'm proud to be an American because this is the country I choose. I didn't happen to be born here. I chose this country to live."

After the celebration, many of the new citizens registered to vote.