PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) -- The United States has around 100 new citizens as of Friday, after a naturalization ceremony at the Peoria Public Library.

In the lower level of the library, many sat waiting to be confirmed as a citizen, as U.S. Magistrate Judge Ronald Hanna presided over the ceremony.

People were in attendance from many countries, including Haiti, Mexico and Brazil, among others.

One couple, Leilani and Thomas Hayes, who lived in New Zealand for most of their lives, were naturalized together. They say they have fallen in love with the U.S.

"It definitely grows," Leilani said, "your understanding of the nation, love of the people. I think it's a good amount of time to get to know it. It's been challenging but really good for our character and our household."

One woman, Erika Run

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