Photo by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxXY5oDCqFk)
District of South Carolina Welcomes New Citizens
On June 25, the District of South Carolina hosted a naturalization ceremony in Columbia, where 26 individuals from 13 countries became United States citizens. Fourth Circuit Executive James Ishida shared remarks and presented a moving AI-enhanced video chronicling his family's journey to citizenship. Judge Sherri A. Lydon spoke about the enduring importance of the rule of law, while Judge Richard M. Gergel and Chief Judge Timothy M. Cain reflected on the First Amendment and the value of our nation's cultural and religious diversity. The ceremony also featured a performance by students from Irmo Elementary School and was attended by University of South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley. The event served as a powerful reminder of the meaning of American citizenship.
Western District of Virginia Celebrates Independence Day 
Photo by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxXY5oDCqFk)
The Western District of Virginia held a special July 4 naturalization ceremony at Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia, in which Chief District Judge Elizabeth K. Dillon presided. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, Circuit Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson, and District Judge Robert S. Ballou offered remarks, while District Judges Norman K. Moon and Michael F. Urbanski, Bankruptcy Judge Rebecca B. Connelly, and Magistrate Judge C. Kailani Memmer were also in attendance to welcome the nation’s newest citizens. Holding the naturalization ceremony at the home of Thomas Jefferson, primary author of the Declaration of Independence, held special significance during the 250th anniversary of its adoption.
Eastern District of Virginia Marks the Nation’s 250th Anniversary:
Circuit Judge Roger L. Gregory administered the Oath of Allegiance to 63 candidates from 29 countries during a July 4 ceremony held at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture in Richmond, Virginia, honoring both the newest American citizens and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In his remarks, Judge Gregory highlighted ideals that have endured for 250 years and shared observations from de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America. “Those ideals, keep them strong and sturdy.”
Watch the full ceremony at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bz3h0C38paU.