As an intense debate over immigration rages on, and amid issues along the southern border, 33 people from 19 different countries are celebrating a momentous occasion in the Capital Region: officially becoming United States citizens.

To be eligible for naturalization, immigrants must meet certain requirements. They include, but are not limited to: being a permanent resident of the U.S. for at least five years; be at least 18 years old; and able to read, write and speak basic English.

These new citizens also completed an interview and test process, demonstrating a knowledge of U.S. history and government.

Naturalization ceremonies mark the completion of all this and usually feature the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of the national anthem and the oath of allegiance.

Over the course of his career, Federal Judge Christian Hummel has presided over many of these ceremonies. He calls them special, especially when they’re at places like Rensselaer High School with students in attendance.

He says with all the noise surrounding the issue of immigration right now, it’s even more meaningful.

“These are folks who’ve gone through the process the right way, they’ve gone through the process which has taken years, they’ve traveled here correctly and are now part of the American people,” Hummel said. “It’s important for the kids to see how that all works.”

Over the last decade or so, according to U.S. Immigration and Citizenship Services, there have been 7.5 million naturalized citizens welcomed to the country.