Greensboro, NC-- Dozens of citizenship students get a special lesson on the meaning behind Old Glory in their class on Flag Day.
News 2 talked with a group of students working toward their American citizenship. For them, they see the flag as a symbol of a better life.
The group members, from all over the world, come together on Thursday nights with one thing in common: Their desire to be an American. Their teacher, Susan Perez has found her role quite humbling.
"I appreciate this country far more than I ever did before. I know about the freedoms that we have and I didn't think about it before," said Perez.
Thursday night was a timely lesson, learning about Old Glory on Flag Day.
"I wanted to give them a little bit of a history on the flag, talk about what the flag looks like, the colors of the flag and what they mean," added Perez.
For the members of the class, the meaning behind the flag is perhaps different than for most. It symbolizes a chance at a new beginning.
"I want to be able to live in this country and work in this country and be happy," said Kanog Psun, a native of Thailand.
For some, it's a symbol of pride.
"You get American citizenship and you go outside, they respect, they respect you," said Aman Dengg, a native of South Sudan, who received citizenship three months ago.
Perez also used the holiday to define the Pledge of Allegiance.
Perez said, "I think it's important to know what they're saying, not just to say the words."
Turns out, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance is important. The students have to recite the pledge when they take their test for citizenship, along with knowing the answers to one hundred questions and be prepared for an interview.
WFMY News 2