JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The American dream became a reality for nearly two dozen people.

Twenty people were sworn-in on Thursday, April 17 during a Naturalization Ceremony at the U.S. Courthouse in downtown Jackson.

“Really exciting and happy, because when I came 23 years ago, I have my dreams, you know, and now I realize in my dreams. I have my American dream because my three kids, they already finished their school, the university,” said Liliam Camacho, a new American citizen.

The new citizens had to pass a series of tests, interviews and background checks.