Naturalization ceremony in the town hall

Between April and October 2024, around 250 people in the city of Hof received a naturalization certificate.

Auf dem Bild ist ein Mann mit Mikrofon zu sehen, der im Großen Saal spricht. Neben und vor ihm sind Kinder und zwei Frauen. — Foto (Stadt Hof): (von links) Oberbürgermeisterin Eva Döhla, Frau Shikhmous mit Kindern und Udo Jahreiß, Leiter des Bürgeramts

Auf dem Gruppenbild sind viele Menschen zu sehen, Erwachsene und Kinder. — Foto (Stadt Hof): Die Neubürgerinnen und Neubürger der Stadt Hof mit Oberbürgermeisterin Eva Döhla (rechts)

A festive naturalization ceremony was held this week in the main conference room of Hof Town Hall, which focused on the diversity and moving stories of the new German citizens. In his welcoming speech, Udo Jahreiß, Head of the Citizens' Office, highlighted the significant increase in both the number of naturalization applications and the number of naturalizations carried out. Between April and October 2024, around 250 people received a naturalization certificate in the city of Hof.

Mayor Eva Döhla: "The decision to accept German citizenship is a strong commitment to our society and our city. It shows how integration can succeed through mutual respect, tolerance and the willingness to help shape society. Hof is proud to be a home for so many different people from all over the world."

A special moment of the evening was the story of Ms. Shikhmous, who represents courage, new beginnings and successful integration for many of those present. The conversation, moderated by Udo Jahreiß, who organized the ceremony, led to some touching moments. The Syrian-born woman is currently training to become an educator at the St. Pius kindergarten, while her husband works as an ophthalmologist in Münchberg. In an emotional letter, her husband, who was unable to work, described their family's experiences: "Germany gave us the security and opportunities that we had lost in our home country. After years of challenges and hurdles, we are now proud to be a part of this society. We feel obliged to do our best to support and enrich this country."

Eva Döhla: "The story of Ms. Shikhmous and her family is a touching example of the journey that many people take to find their feet in a new home. It stands for the enrichment that new perspectives and experiences bring to our city."

The event was accompanied by music from the saxophone trio of the Hofer Symphoniker music school. As a sign of solidarity, the naturalized citizens received a welcome gift. After a group photo, the evening ended in a convivial atmosphere with a snack. With this naturalization ceremony, the city of Hof sends a clear signal for diversity and thanks all newly naturalized citizens for their commitment and their decision to become part of the Hof community.