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The Federal Courthouse complex in Scranton, Pennsylvania, is an architectural treasure. The federal style design of the old courthouse is a link to the past. The modern design of the new courthouse is a
bridge to the future.
Through the doors of these great buildings walk hundreds of people every day of the week. Some come to work … some come to mourn… some come to plead, and, on very special occasions, a group of people walk
through these doors to become American citizens.
The journey to becoming an American citizen often begins with danger, fear, doubt and sacrifice, but the journey always ends with an oath, a pledge and a flag. It is a unique and transformational moment.
It happens all over the country in a simple ceremony that most of us have never seen.
For several months Kitch and I have been working on a special edition of Windsor Park Stories. It takes place in a magnificent courtroom in the Federal Courthouse in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It showcases a naturalization ceremony that took place in October 2004.
The objective is very simple. We want our viewers to experience the beauty, simplicity, and emotion that 49 Americans experienced on their day of days.
This is a story of beginnings and transformations. It is enriched by the exquisite musical compositions of Carole Lynn Campbell, the magical voice of Greg O’Brien and the resources of the Library of Congress.
This is a Windsor Park Story about freedom, loyalty, sacrifice, joy and discovery. It is a story about cultural enrichment and diversity. It is a story that defines what it means to be an American. It is a story that we are proud to tell because it documents the essence of our country, our people and our beliefs.
At a time when some argue that citizenship is not important, we beg to differ. A Special Day for America documents the importance of citizenship.
As you watch the episode at your computer, listen with your heart and your eyes as well as your ears.
Look carefully at the facial expressions and listen to the words of joy. It will become obvious that the first step on the journey to freedom takes place deep inside the human heart.
From many we become one, and that is what makes America beautiful. There is so much about the essence of America that we can learn from the Americans who were at the courthouse in Scranton.
We hope that you enjoy A Special Day for America, and we hope that all of your stories have happy endings.
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