A group of newly minted baby citizens will be fawned over Monday during a celebration at Oakland's premiere progenitor of whimsy and giggles.
Children's Fairyland is hosting a group of 25 children ranging in age from two to 13 for a ceremony during which they will receive certificates of citizenship, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services spokeswoman Sharon Rummery.
"It's the birth certificate of your citizenship," Rummery said. "It's a big day."
All of the children officially became U.S. citizens when at least one of their parents became naturalized.
Their families had to apply for the certificates, for which immigrant children are qualified if they live with their citizen parent or parents and also have a green card.
Headlining the event will be Michael Pritchard, a comedian and speaker who talks to children about social and emotional skills, among other things.
Prichard has performed at previous "proof of citizenship" ceremonies, and "the kids were scream-laughing," Rummery said.
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The day kicks off at 11:30 a.m. Monday and includes Children's Fairyland Executive Director C.J. Hirschfield, free admission and run of the park for the kids and their families and a performance by TOSCA, an a cappella group associated with the Golden Gate Symphony Chorus, which will introduce the children to "a medley of patriotic music," according to Rummery.
The wee guests of honor come from 16 different countries, including China, Burma, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Mexico and Canada.
