City of Offenbach attends the Hessian state government's naturalization ceremony at Biebrich Palace

The citizens' office of the city of Offenbach, which has been responsible for naturalization and citizenship law since March, experienced a special moment in Wiesbaden on Tuesday, 17 September 2024. Recently naturalized citizens from all over Hesse were invited and welcomed by State Secretary Martin Rößler. In the festive setting of Biebrich Palace, the Hessian Minister for Labour, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs, Heike Hofmann, presented the naturalization certificates and gave a ceremonial speech. Dr. Margaret Cheng from Offenbach also received her certificate on behalf of many naturalized citizens of Offenbach that evening.

The Hessian Ministry of Labour, Integration, Youth and Social Affairs had invited people to the annual ceremony to honor the decision to naturalize. The ceremony is an important occasion that focuses on the commitment to German citizenship and the values of Germany. City Treasurer and responsible department head Martin Wilhelm is delighted that the naturalization ceremony in Wiesbaden was given a festive setting and that Offenbach was represented: "Naturalization not only marks a legal change, but also symbolizes the desire to be an active part of society and to contribute to it," says Wilhelm.

Interest in naturalization remains high. "I solemnly declare that I will respect the Basic Law and the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany and will refrain from doing anything that could harm it." This is the solemn declaration that completes the naturalization process and has often brought a tear to the eye.

Melanie Peraica and Ms Sapmaz, employees of the Offenbach Citizens' Office, experienced this emotional moment at first hand and shared the joy of her naturalization with Dr Margaret Cheng and her husband Dino Cappiello.