An information session on how to apply for citizenship and what you need to know about the naturalization process is scheduled for Saturday, April 8, 2017 at the downtown Toledo offices of Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE), located at 525 Jefferson Ave., from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The information session is presented by ABLE, Adelante, En Camino (SS. Peter & Paul Church), Water for Ishmael, and Welcome Toledo-Lucas County. Attorneys and advocates from these organizations will be available throughout the event.

“United States citizenship is the ultimate defense to deportation,” says Patty Hernández, a senior attorney with ABLE. “In today’s political climate, if you have the opportunity to become a U.S. citizen, you should take it. This Citizenship event provides eligible Lawful Permanent Residents with the information they need to make this important decision, the tools available to overcome any related barriers, and an opportunity to obtain one-on-one support,” she adds.

All lawful permanent residents are encouraged to attend to learn what it takes to become a United States citizen, including what is required as part of the naturalization process, what fees and waivers are involved in becoming a citizen, and what resources are available for assistance with the civics test that is part of the application process.

A presentation in English and Arabic is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. and a presentation in Spanish is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Each presentation will follow with opportunities to speak directly with an attorney or Board of Immigration (BIA) accredited paralegal about individual cases. No documents or other paperwork is required for the presentations.

The Citizenship & Naturalization Information Sessions are FREE and include breakfast and lunch. English, Spanish, and Arabic interpreters will be available, as well as information on English proficiency classes and other resources. Anyone interested in the process is encouraged to attend.

For more information about Citizenship Day, call 419/930-2555.

Click images to download flyers for this event in PDF format: