The Brief
- Over 500 individuals became U.S. citizens during the 40th annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center on July 4th.
- The ceremony featured performances, speeches from local leaders, and the oath of allegiance administered by Chief Judge David G. Estudillo.
- This event marks a longstanding Seattle tradition, paused only in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
SEATTLE, Wash. – More than 500 people from around the world officially became U.S. citizens this Fourth of July during the 40th annual Naturalization Ceremony at Seattle Center, marking a momentous Independence Day celebration in the heart of the city.
The public ceremony was presided over by Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo of the Western District of Washington, who administered the oath of allegiance to the new Americans.
The program began with the presentation of the colors by the Washington State Guard Honor Guard and a performance of the national anthem by soloist Maria Kesovija, accompanied by High Class Brass. Attendees then heard welcome remarks from Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, followed by a Native American performance titled “The Spirit of All Things” featuring storyteller Gene Tagaban and musicians Peter Ali and Swil Kanim.…