SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) - It’s been a 20-year journey towards the American Dream – Wednesday, that dream is realized for Vilma Valle, a Logan custodian who with the help of her students is finally a U.S. Citizen. ABC 4 was there for her Swearing in Ceremony at the Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City.
750 hands covering their racing hearts. 750 voices collectively concluding, “With liberty and justice for all.” It’s a new Pledge of Allegiance for new citizens - including Vilma Valle from El Salvador.
On the eve of her ceremony, it was business as usual for Vilma. Cleaning the Edith Bowen Laboratory School in Logan, is more than a job, it’s a better life.
Vilma hasn't seen her own children in 12 years, but a different group of children, the students at Edith Bowen have helped her achieve the American Dream.
“We cleaned the school for her and we let her sit down, take a break and study for her citizenship test,” explains 5th grade student Hannah.
The students also quizzed her and raised money for the citizenship test.
Wednesday they came to the ceremony to surprise Vilma.
As Vilma exits the ceremony to make her way into the crowd of cheering children, it is this moment that trumps all others. “Right now, when I see all the children, oh, I am very happy!” exclaims Vilma Valle.
“It makes me feel kind of sad because she had to be away from her family for a long time and it makes me feel happy because now she gets to be a part of the U.S.” expresses 5th grade student Jennifer.
Stuart, another 5th grade student adds, “I'm here because I really like Vilma and I have been a friend of hers for a long time.”
Vilma is proud to be an American and plans to exercise her new rights. “I am so happy because maybe I can vote in November.”
When asked who she will vote for, Vilma shyly laughs and says she doesn’t know yet, but will definitely cast a ballot.
Utah swore in over 1,500 new citizens Wednesday in two different ceremonies – a record for the state.
