A Special Honor: Special Guest at the Naturalization Ceremony at the Federal Courthouse

Recently, I had the absolute honor of being a special guest at the Naturalization Ceremony at the Federal Courthouse. For those who aren’t familiar, this ceremony is a pivotal moment where immigrants officially become U.S. citizens—a day that marks the culmination of their hard work, dedication, and dreams of a brighter future. It was truly one of the most humbling experiences of my career.

A Day Full of Meaning

When I arrived at the courthouse, I could feel the excitement and anticipation in the air. Family members filled the courtroom, some holding American flags, others holding bouquets of flowers, all waiting to celebrate their loved ones’ achievement. As a lawyer, I’m no stranger to the courthouse, but this day felt different. It wasn’t about trials or legal battles—it was about welcoming these incredible individuals to the American family.

I was invited to speak, which felt like such a privilege. Standing before this group of soon-to-be citizens, I couldn’t help but reflect on what citizenship means, especially in today’s world. It’s more than a piece of paper; it’s the opportunity to have a voice in shaping our country’s future, to enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted, and to participate in the democratic process that makes America what it is.

The Power of Citizenship

During my speech, I talked about the responsibilities and rights that come with citizenship. For many of these individuals, the journey to becoming a U.S. citizen was long and challenging, but their perseverance and belief in the promise of this country brought them here. Seeing their pride as they took the oath of allegiance was incredibly moving. It reminded me how much citizenship means, and how much it can change lives—not just for the new citizens themselves, but for their families and communities.

What This Day Meant to Me

This ceremony was a powerful reminder of the values we hold dear: liberty, equality, and opportunity. As a mom and an attorney, I often think about the kind of world we’re building for the next generation. Moments like this remind me why I fight so hard for justice and fairness in my work. Each of these new citizens brought with them unique stories, cultures, and perspectives that will only strengthen the fabric of our nation. We are, after all, a nation of immigrants.

A Final Reflection

Walking out of the courthouse that day, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude—not just for the opportunity to be part of this ceremony, but for the reminder of how special our country is. Being an American means something. It means freedom, opportunity, and the ability to make your voice heard. Watching these new citizens embrace that was a privilege I won’t soon forget.

To all the new citizens, I say this: Welcome. We are so lucky to have you.

XOXO,
Shannon