Photos: Thousands attend L.A. naturalization ceremony

Munir Nizami, a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services assistant, leads future citizens and family members into a naturalization ceremony.  (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Immigrants receive American flags as they arrive for a naturalization ceremony.

Newly sworn-in Americans wave flags after taking the oath of citizenship.

Ximena Turpin, 2, joins her mother, Maria Turpin, 42, during a naturalization ceremony at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Jose Acabal, 50, gets a hug from his wife, Herlinda Chacon, after becoming a naturalized American citizen during a ceremony at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Naturalized American citizens watch a video presentation after taking the oath of citizenship.

Waldemar Orozco, 73, gets a hug from daughter Karina Wagner after becoming a U.S. citizen.

Christian Meza, 24, left, gets a hug from girlfriend Sheila Garcia after becoming a U.S. citizen.