A Memorable Citizenship Ceremony at Mount Vernon

At Mount Vernon on Saturday, a special citizenship ceremony took place against the backdrop of George Washington’s historic estate. The event marked the swearing-in of new United States citizens on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Guests gathered on the expansive lawn, shaded by trees, to witness this momentous occasion.

Anne Neal Petri, representing the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, warmly greeted the attendees. “Good morning, everybody,” she began, followed by a lively response from the crowd. Petri continued, “And Happy Birthday, United States of America!”

In attendance were 150 individuals from 50 countries, each poised to become a U.S. citizen. Among them was U.S. Marine Sgt. Diakaria Sangare from Guinea, proudly wearing his Dress Blue uniform adorned with three medals. He, like many others, had navigated the challenging path to citizenship, facing interviews, tests, and other processes required to gain U.S. citizenship. Some in the crowd had sought refuge from violent regions, while others had fled persecution.

Participants listened to speeches, including one about George Washington, before standing for the national anthem. Hats were removed, and hands placed over hearts as the anthem played. Sangare saluted, reflecting the gravity of the moment. When invited to stand as their respective countries were announced, the crowd rose accordingly. This moment highlighted the diversity of the group, representing nations such as Albania, Bangladesh, China, and Morocco.

With hands raised, they recited the Oath of Allegiance, transforming them into U.S. citizens. Applause erupted, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Sangare closed his eyes in contemplation, near a tulip poplar tree planted by Washington himself 250 years ago.

The ceremony included a speech by historian Douglas Bradburn, who emphasized the shared narratives now joining with American history. He underscored that the stories of these new Americans contribute to the tapestry of the nation’s history.

The event featured a re-enactment with a figure representing George Washington, who addressed the new citizens. Standing by a large American flag, he declared, “Today the name of ‘American’ belongs to you every bit as much as it does to me.” His words acknowledged their journeys and welcomed their integration into the American heritage.

After the ceremony, Sgt. Sangare, with pride and emotion, posed for a photograph holding an American flag paddle fan. “I just became a United States citizen,” he shared, his joy evident in his smile.