Syracuse Volunteers Welcome New Citizens at Voting Events

Imagine becoming a U.S. citizen and immediately learning how to make your voice heard through voting.

The League of Women Voters in Syracuse is calling for volunteers to help newly naturalized Americans register to vote right after their citizenship ceremonies. The nonpartisan organization provides a welcoming first step into civic participation for people who've just achieved their dream of becoming U.S. citizens.

Joan Durant, the volunteer Syracuse voter services director, explains that volunteers introduce themselves to new citizens and help them register on the spot. They also hand out First Vote pamphlets that explain how voting works in New York state.

The commitment is simple: just one hour at naturalization ceremonies in the Syracuse area. Volunteers educate new citizens about their voting rights and wrap up with a short celebration speech honoring their citizenship.

Amy Venskus, a retired Syracuse teacher, has volunteered at more than 100 ceremonies. She describes the atmosphere as electric with joy and possibility.

"It's like a wedding or a graduation, everyone is excited," Venskus said. The ceremonies bring together people from dozens of countries, all taking the same meaningful step into American citizenship.

The Ripple Effect

Each volunteer interaction creates a cascade of civic engagement. When new citizens register to vote immediately after taking their oath, they're more likely to participate in elections and stay engaged in their communities. A recent Syracuse ceremony saw 34 people from 18 different countries become U.S. citizens, each one now equipped with the knowledge to cast their first vote.

The League maintains strict nonpartisan standards. Durant emphasizes they never push candidates or political positions. The goal is purely educational: helping people understand the voting process and ensuring they have the tools to participate.

Interested volunteers can sign up online through the League's local chapter website, where they can view upcoming ceremony dates and connect with organizers. Every new volunteer means more new Americans get a warm welcome into their role as voters and active community members.