Twenty-five Northern Virginia residents from 17 countries became United States citizens Friday afternoon during a naturalization ceremony at Alexandria City Hall, marking Constitution Day with a celebration of America’s newest citizens.
The ceremony, administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the council chambers, welcomed new Americans from Bangladesh, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, India, Lebanon, Mexico, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Peru, Portugal and Vietnam.
The new citizens joined the 818,500 immigrants who became U.S. citizens through naturalization during the 2024 fiscal year, according to the Pew Research Center. While millions of lawful permanent residents are currently eligible to become U.S. citizens, many have not yet applied for naturalization.
Juan Wood, section chief of the USCIS Washington Field Office, presided over the special ceremony held as part of the agency’s annual Citizenship Day and Constitution Week celebration. Wood declined to speak with ALXnow prior to the ceremony, saying he was not allowed to speak to the press.
During the ceremony, Wood explained the significance of the event to attendees.
“Each year USCIS celebrates the connection between the Constitution and citizenship and highlights what it means to be a United States citizen by holding special naturalization ceremonies across the country,” Wood said.
Mayor Alyia Gaskins delivered welcome remarks that acknowledged both the challenges facing the nation and the promise represented by its newest citizens.
“Today is a day where we are reminded that we have no choice but to celebrate,” Gaskins said. “Because no matter what is going on, we are a country that has overcome our worst and still has the ability to be our brightest and to be a shining star for all of the world.”
The mayor emphasized that the diverse backgrounds of the new citizens would help strengthen both Alexandria and the nation as a whole.
“It is you who’s going to help us create a new chapter in our country,” Gaskins told the candidates. “It is your diversity, it is your idea, it is your ingenuity. It’s your spirit, it’s your kindness, it’s your compassion, it’s everything that you have brought every day of your life that you are bringing into this room and into this moment.”
A USCIS officer presented the candidates for naturalization, confirming each had been interviewed by immigration officers and demonstrated English proficiency and knowledge of U.S. history and civics.
“I present to you 25 candidates representing 17 countries who have applied to become citizens of the United States,” Ramirez said. “Each has demonstrated his or her knowledge, understanding of the history and the principles and form of government of the United States.”
The candidates then raised their right hands and recited the oath of allegiance, formally renouncing allegiance to foreign nations and pledging to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and laws. Following the oath, the new citizens participated in their first Pledge of Allegiance as Americans, led by Assistant City Manager Julia Gonzalez.
Wood encouraged the new citizens to embrace their civic responsibilities and opportunities as Americans.
“As new citizens, you will help shape our country in the future,” Wood said. “Each of you brings distinct skills, experiences, and hope that you will ensure that your talents are served to serve our community and our nation.”
He urged the new Americans to volunteer with local organizations, run for public office, vote in elections, and participate in activities that contribute to the nation’s continued success.
Councilman Canek Aguirre delivered closing remarks, drawing from his personal experience attending his father’s naturalization ceremony. He emphasized the inclusive language found in American founding documents.
“Words are very, very important. Language is very important,” Aguirre said. “One of the first Constitution, it begins with “we the people”. We, all of us inclusive. When we’re doing the Pledge of Allegiance, at the very end, it says “justice for all”. All of us.”
Aguirre highlighted the historic contributions of immigrants to the United States across all fields.
“Our diversity is our strength, not just here in Alexandria, but in our country,” Aguirre said. “Immigrants have contributed so much to our country from the very inception all the way to today, and in every single field that you can think of.”
Councilwoman Jacinta Greene was also present for the ceremony.
The ceremony included the singing of the national anthem and the presentation of citizenship certificates to each new American.
The naturalization ceremony represents one of many held across the country during USCIS’s annual Citizenship Day and Constitution Week celebration, which commemorates the connection between the Constitution and citizenship.
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, commonly observed on Sept. 17, recognize both the adoption of the United States Constitution in 1787 and those who have become U.S. citizens. Friday’s ceremony brought that celebration to Alexandria’s council chambers, where 25 Northern Virginia residents completed their journey to American citizenship.
