RHINEBECK — Dozens of immigrants from across the globe took the final step in their long journey to American citizenship on Thursday, during an emotional naturalization ceremony at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds.

Forty individuals, hailing from countries such as Portugal, Brazil, Mozambique, and beyond, officially became U.S. citizens in front of family members, community leaders, and well-wishers. Dutchess County Clerk Brad Kendall, who presided over the event, called it a powerful moment that underscored the enduring promise of the American dream.

“Everybody has their own story. Everybody has a different reason,” Kendall said. “Some people have been here 30 years, some five. But today, they’re all Americans. This is what makes our country so great.”

One of the new citizens, Jose Luis

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