Abdallah Haneyah, who is originally from Jordan, ran straight to his two young children and gave them a big hug after becoming a naturalized citizen.

“The moment, the freedom,” Haneyah said with a big smile about his new citizenship.

Jose Delgado, who is originally from Mexico, said he was feeling proud to complete all the paperwork required to become a citizen.

“It feels great, it’s awesome,” said Delgado, who lives in South Bend. “I don’t have words to explain it. It’s a wonderful feeling.”

On the eve of the Fourth of July holiday, 28 people from 19 countries sat on stage of the Wolf Lake Pavilion in Hammond. Those on stage, wearing their Sunday best and holding small American flags, were about to become naturalized citizens.

U.S. District Court of Northern District of Indiana Magistrate Judge Abizer Zanzi asked those on stage to stand as he called out their country of origin: Mexico, Argentina, Belgium, Ireland, India, Canada, China, Ecuador, and many others.

When the moment came, everyone on stage held up their right hand and recited the citizenship oath. As they received their certificates of citizenship, many of them took a moment to admire the paperwork.

Everyone on stage, Zanzi said, satisfied the requirements for naturalization including age, residency and language. They demonstrated their knowledge of U.S. history and government, as well as “good moral character.”

“You’re not leaving your past behind. You’re bringing it with you, towards your American citizenship” Zanzi said. “As someone who is a first-generation American, I can tell you that’s very much true.”

Local, state and federal leaders spoke at the naturalization ceremony to welcome and congratulate the new U.S. citizens.

Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott said everyone on the stage earned their citizenship “the right way.”

“Your decision to take the leap to the path of citizenship is not just admirable, it’s courageous,” McDermott said. “You studied, you waited, you filed papers, you stood for interviews, and now you stand here having completed every step by our nation.”

Americans believe in “fairness and the rule of law, but we also believe in second chances, in new beginnings,” McDermott said.

“There is no denying that today (there are) those who didn’t follow the legal process face uncertainty. In the time of increased immigration enforcement, many who came here unlawfully live in fear, always looking over their shoulder, not sure what tomorrow may bring. You don’t have to live in fear. You don’t have to whisper your story, you can shout it.”

McDermott said as U.S. citizens those on the stage should be sure to contribute to their communities, give back through their work and vote.

“You remind us all that the American Dream is still alive for those willing to work for it the right way,” McDermott said.

State Rep. Carolyn Jackson, D-Hammond, said each person on the stage had a different story, background and experience. But, following the ceremony, they stand united with U.S. citizens, she said.

“I am honored to stand here with you as your fellow American. Thank you for choosing the United States of America and believing in its promise. Your presence here today is a testament to the promise of the American dream,” Jackson said. “You belong here. This is your home. Your voice matters.”

Secretary of State Diego Morales said it was an honor to address those on stage because he became a naturalized citizen after his family came to the U.S. from Guatemala. Morales said he remembers filing out applications, studying for the test and feeling nervous.

“I remember that day when I finally became a naturalized citizen. It is without question one of the best days of my life,” Morales said. “Today, as you take this final step in becoming officially U.S. citizens, know this: You are not just joining a country. You are joining a legacy of resilience, strength and where your dreams are possible.”

Tony Ferraro, who spoke on behalf of Gov. Mike Braun, said since July 4, 1776, Americans have been “welcoming those from beyond our shores to join our American experiment.”

“It is now my opportunity, as the descendant of Italian immigrants, to welcome you to your own journey here in America and to our great state of Indiana,” Ferraro said.

Kelly Anthony, regional director for Republican U.S. Sen. Todd Young, read a letter from Young that said it was an honor and a privilege to welcome the new U.S. citizens.

“America has been called the land of opportunity because every individual, regardless of their background, has the chance to make a new life for themselves and their families,” Anthony said. “Thank you for contributing to the success of our great state.”

LeAnn Angerman, regional director for Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Banks, said the senator commends everyone on the stage for their “hard work and dedication” in obtaining their citizenship.

“In America, if given the opportunity, if given the chance, you can succeed and that’s what sets us apart. It is our freedoms and values that make us a shining light to the rest of the world,” Angerman said.

Mark Lopez, chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, D-Highland, said each new citizen will bring their cultures and traditions with them to the U.S.

“Becoming a citizen is more than receiving a certificate, it is an affirmation of the commitment to the values of this nation: liberty, justice, equality and the rule of law,” Lopez said. “Your presence here is a powerful reminder of what America truly is, a nation continually renewed and enriched by the people who choose it.”

akukulka@chicagotribune.com