Chief Judge Albert Diaz welcoming new citizens at Monticello.
At historic Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, Chief Judge Albert Diaz, co-presiding with Chief Judge Elizabeth K. Dillon of the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, gave remarks welcoming 74 new citizens from 36 countries.
“The oath that you've taken is a solemn one and with it comes great responsibilities. Among them, is the obligation to vote,” stated Diaz. “I urge you and indeed everyone in this audience to vote…but more than that I implore
you to get involved in the life and social fabric of your communities. Democracy is not a spectator sport, so please take the field and let your voices be heard.”
Watch: Monticello Naturalization Ceremony.
Judge Roger L. Gregory administered the Oath of Allegiance to 94 candidates from 46 countries at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture in Richmond, Virginia. He referred to the concept of “democratic citizenship” in quoting Dr. Ronald
Daniels: “The genius of liberal democracy lies in no small part in its capacity to value and give voice to the great diversity of human experience.” Gregory stated that the endurance of our great nation is in the hands of citizens.
Per Judge Roger L. Gregory, "This photo depicts the promise of the 'Spirit of 76' that lies ahead for all new citizens and their offspring."
Quoting Thomas Jefferson’s wish that the whole Union may accommodate their interests to each other, Gregory stated, “Forming a more perfect union is a project…that’s the only way we can make this union more perfect. When
we see we are in this together and that we need to fulfill these lofty goals."
“Our love for our great nation must endure. Keep forming the more perfect union.”
Watch: VMHC Naturalization Ceremony