HOUSTON, TX – In a city as diverse and dynamic as Houston, the meaning of belonging goes far beyond geography. For more than 360,000 lawful permanent residents living in the Greater Houston area—many for over a decade—the path to full civic participation has remained elusive. But now, a powerful coalition of organizations is changing that.

At a spirited community briefing held at the Southern News Group on May 8, local leaders, advocates, and civic champions gathered to launch a renewed citizenship campaign under one clear message: “Citizenship: The Time is Now.”

“We’re talking about our neighbors—people who have worked, paid taxes, raised families, and contributed to the life of this city,” said KaNeesha Allen, Community Collaboration Lead at Dalberg Design. “Eighty percent of those eligible have lived here for over 10 years. Forty percent for over 20. The time to act is long overdue.”

Legal Pathways, Real Barriers, and Lifesaving Support

The journey toward citizenship is more than paperwork. It’s emotional, complex, and for many, financially out of reach. That’s why Houston’s campaign focuses on eliminating those barriers—starting with misinformation and fear.

Austra Zapata, Naturalization Program Manager for Harris County, put it plainly:

“Citizenship is the trophy at the end of a very long and complicated journey. We’ve built a wraparound program that truly serves Harris County residents at no cost.”

That program is delivering results. In just the first quarter of 2025, over 2,000 individuals were screened and 1,400 received full legal representation. 

Breaking Language and Literacy Barriers

For immigrants facing language or literacy challenges, organizations like Woori Juntos are stepping up.

“Some are non-literate in any language. So we ensure our classes are culturally responsive and make them feel safe and supported,” said Alice Min, Operations Associate. She shared that her own mother, once hesitant, is now a proud U.S. citizen and first-time voter. 

Navigators Who’ve Walked the Same Path

Angie Dupree, Citizenship Coordinator with the National Partnership for New Americans, emphasized that community navigators are key:

“They speak the language; they look like our communities — and many have gone through the citizenship process themselves. That kind of trust is priceless.”

She also clarified a little-known but critical point:

“If you’ve been a resident long enough and you’re of a certain age, you may be exempt from the English portion of the exam.” 

When Denial Isn’t Just a Delay—It’s a Risk

Zenobia Lai, Executive Director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, shared a sobering reality:

“Under the current administration, denial could push someone into deportation proceedings. That’s why legal aid is critical now more than ever.”

She also addressed the cost hurdle head-on.

“The application fee is $760. Many simply can’t afford that. But with programs like Give Citizenship a Boost, we’re offering hope — and financial aid. 

Hope, Courage, and Never Turning Anyone Away

Dedre Smith, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, believes deeply in second chances:

“We see people afraid and unsure. Then they come back saying, ‘I passed!’ I believe in never turning anyone away—because these wraparound services are a lifeline.”

Jannette Diep, Executive Director of Boat People SOS Houston, knows firsthand how critical access is:

“I didn’t even know I could get help for free—without borrowing from friends or family. That’s what made the difference.” 

From Bystander to Upstander

The call to action was clear, and it echoed from every panelist’s testimony: don’t wait. Houston’s network of nonprofits, legal teams, and educators is ready.

Community advocate Michael Treviño closed the event with the challenge:

“This is not the time to be a bystander. Be an upstander.”

Citizenship: A Right Worth Reaching For

Whether it’s a grandmother taking the exam in her third language, a young mother inspired to vote for the first time, or a refugee rebuilding a future, their stories all say the same thing: Citizenship is more than a legal status—it’s a statement of belonging.

And thanks to Houston’s coalition of courageous leaders and helpers, that path just became more possible than ever.

Learn more about free legal support, financial aid programs, and how to begin your journey at:
👉 www.NaturalizeNowHouston.org
👉 www.hilsc.org
👉 www.boatpeoplesos.org
👉 www.literacycouncilofFC.org 

#CitizenshipNow #HoustonStrong #TeamStyleMag #HSM #NaturalizeHouston