PROVIDENCE, R.I. – When 25 new Americans are sworn in as citizens of the United States this Saturday morning at Roger Williams National Park in Providence, Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis is hoping they will register to vote, too.
The Secretary of State’s office will be there when the ceremony begins at 8 a.m. ready to register every person who takes the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services expects to swear in 25 new citizens tomorrow.
“Imagine the thrill of becoming a citizen and a voter on the most historic day in American history. Attending the swearing-in events is just one of the ways my office makes it easier for people to vote,” said Mollis.
While the event targets new Americans, Mollis’ staff will help any member of the public register or update his or her voter registration at tomorrow’s ceremony. In order to register, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of Rhode Island and at least 18 years of age on Election Day 2010.
Saturday's registration effort is just one example of the outreach Mollis has stressed since being elected. He also sends his staff into the state’s high schools and colleges to help Rhode Island students register to vote.
Mollis oversees many aspects of federal, state and municipal elections held in Rhode Island. His office also publishes guidebooks that include important dates in the election cycle as well as outline how to run for office and register to vote.
Secretary of State Mollis is committed to making it easier to vote, helping businesses grow and making government more open and accessible. For more information about the programs and services the Secretary of State offers Rhode Islanders, visit www.sec.state.ri.us.
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