James Demands Answers on USCIS Ceremony Cancellations

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James has fired off a scathing letter to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph B. Edlow, demanding a reversal of the agency’s sudden decision to cancel naturalization ceremonies in several New York counties. The move, affecting Westchester, Rockland, Schenectady, Washington, Broome, Tompkins, and Onondaga counties, has sparked outrage among local officials and community members.

James’s November 19, 2025, letter doesn’t mince words, calling the cancellations a blow to new citizens and a disregard for the significance of the naturalization process. She argues that the oath of allegiance is a pivotal moment for individuals and their communities, marking the culmination of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter as American citizens. For years, New Yorkers have celebrated this occasion locally, a tradition now threatened by the federal government’s abrupt change of course.

The Attorney General emphasizes the logistical benefits of holding ceremonies within the communities where new citizens have established their lives. Allowing families and friends to participate without significant travel burdens was a key component of these local events. The sudden cancellation, delivered with little notice or explanation, has left local officials scrambling and constituents deeply disappointed. James insists that USCIS failed to adequately address concerns or offer solutions before pulling the plug.

“The abruptness of this decision is deeply concerning,” James writes in the letter. “A bipartisan group of county officials, local leaders, and community members have expressed alarm and disappointment. They received this news with short notice, without adequate explanation, and without any effort to address and resolve obstacles.” She is demanding that USCIS reconsider its decision and collaborate with county leaders to ensure these vital ceremonies continue.

James’s office is demanding written responses to a series of pointed questions within 15 days, specifically by December 4, 2025. These include whether the cancellations are permanent or merely a temporary postponement due to the recent government shutdown. She also seeks clarification on how the new federal funding agreement addresses any impacts from the shutdown and what additional measures USCIS is taking to prevent delays in processing citizenship applications for New Yorkers.

The Attorney General’s office is treating this as a matter of serious public concern, hinting at potential legal challenges if USCIS fails to provide satisfactory answers. This isn’t simply about ceremonies; it’s about access to citizenship and respect for the immigrant communities that contribute so much to New York State. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this developing story and report on any further actions taken by Attorney General James and USCIS.

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