Organization reflects on venue change and the potential impact on voter registration access
INDIANAPOLIS—The League of Women Voters of Indianapolis (LWV Indy) has participated in what is expected to be its final opportunity to register voters at administrative naturalization ceremonies held at the Indianapolis Public Library’s Central Library — a venue that, over the years, has welcomed thousands of new citizens and enabled LWV Indy volunteers to register up to 200 new voters each month.
The ceremony on May 21, 2025, marked the final event at the Central Library, following a decision by the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to relocate all administrative naturalization ceremonies to federally owned and operated facilities. LWV Indy has been informed it will not be permitted to register voters at the new locations due to space limitations, though the organization is actively exploring ways to continue supporting new citizens at these venues.
The shift marks a significant change in how new citizens are welcomed – and how organizations like LWV Indy engage with them. The move raises concerns about accessibility and the disruption of long-standing, community-based voter registration efforts that have thrived in a public, welcoming space like the Central Library.
“There’s something truly powerful about witnessing a new citizen take the oath and seeing their pride at taking one of the first steps in their journey as Americans,” said Erin Kelley, a board member with the League of Women Voters of Indianapolis. “These ceremonies have been meaningful not only for those becoming citizens but also for the volunteers who have welcomed them into our democracy. While we’re disappointed by the shift away from public spaces, we’re already exploring new ways to reach and support new citizens, and we remain as committed as ever to helping every eligible voter make their voice heard.”
LWV Indy will continue to support naturalized citizens through outreach and education, including maintaining a presence at judicial naturalization ceremonies held at other Indianapolis locations.
LWV Indy extends its heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers who made the administrative naturalization ceremonies a success and encourages community members to stay involved as the organization adapts to this change. Volunteer opportunities and updates will continue to be shared in the weeks ahead.
For more information or to get involved, contact us at communication@lwvindy.org.