LOS ANGELES (CNS) — A Los Angeles-based immigrant rights organization has begun a naturalization effort to encourage those who qualify to immediately apply for U.S. citizenship.
The “Protect Your Future Now — 100 Days of Citizenship” effort was started by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) in reaction to what it characterized as attempts by President Donald Trump to curtail the freedoms and rights of lawful permanent residents, immigrants and refugees.
The goal is to encourage the more than 2.2 million Californians who qualify to become U.S. citizens. Nationally, a little more than 8.5 million people qualify to naturalize.
“While President Trump uses his first 100 days to create chaos and trample on our constitutional liberties and nation’s values, we are starting 100 days of active citizenship to help those who qualify to apply, free of charge,” said Angelica Salas, CHIRLA executive director.
“Only citizenship protects you and your family from the whims of a reckless administration. Protect your future in this country — become a U.S. citizen because no one can take that away from you.”
As part of the campaign, the coalition will offer free naturalization services to applicants who qualify. An initial legal consultation is required and offered on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m.
The naturalization process includes paying for the $640 citizenship application fee plus $85 for a background check, also known as the biometrics fee. Applicants 75 years of age or older need not pay the biometrics fee. There is no fee for military applicants.
More information is available by calling CHIRLA at (888) 624-4752.