Immigrants realize American dream on the Battleship Massachusette

FALL RIVER — Chen Sour was a young child when she first moved to the United States as a refugee from Cambodia.

She returned to her homeland, but came back to America at the age of 19. By that time, she had the added responsibility of raising a four-year old boy. Sour had grown accustomed to the American style of living, and felt the United States afforded more opportunities for her young family.

Eight years later, the 28-year old Fall River resident was among a group of 50 people from 18 countries who became U.S. citizens Friday as part of a naturalization ceremony held aboard the Battleship Massachusetts. As a result of Sour becoming a citizen, her 12-year old son Ratha also is declared a citizen.

“I’m very proud, very happy,” said Sour. “My son is young and I wanted him to become a citizen. There are better opportunities in this country.”

The new citizens come from all around the globe, including Bosnia-Herzegovina, Pakistan, India and China. While they have different backgrounds and reasons for immigrating to the United States, they gathered together to celebrate their commitment to America. Local politicians encouraged the new citizens to take an active role in their new country.

“As citizens you have freedoms, responsibilities and opportunities,” said state Sen. Michael Rodrigues. “We want, expect and need you to take part in the government of this great country.”

Suley Mano was born in Brazil and lived for a time in Japan. She and her husband Mario moved to the United States six years ago. The New Bedford resident learned to speak English by studying at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and became a certified nurse’s aide after taking classes at Bristol Community College.

Decked out in a patriotic red sun hat and jacket and blue top, Mano beamed with pride after being sworn in.

“The United States is a great country,” said Mano, who has three adult children and two grandchildren living in Brazil. “You can do anything here.”

Eliseu DeSousa became a citizen because he felt it was time to make her American ties official. The 27-year old New Bedford resident moved to this country from Brazil when he was four years old. He loves American sports and will be graduating from Bristol Community College next May with a degree in clinical lab science.

“In my heart I’ve been an American for a long time,” said DeSousa. “I’m completely immersed in this country.”

Two years ago, DeSousa’s parents became naturalized citizens. He was busy working full time and going to school so he did not complete the test necessary to become a citizen. He said she is most excited about having the ability to vote.

“There are certain issues I’d like to see addressed,” DeSousa said. “Now I will have a say.”