Last updated: September 16, 2025
Article
Grand Canyon National Park Hosts Naturalization Ceremony Welcoming 29 New U.S. Citizens
On Friday, September 12, 2025, the breathtaking backdrop of Grand Canyon National Park’s Mather Amphitheater set the stage for a deeply meaningful celebration: the naturalization of 29 new American citizens representing 13 different countries.
This year’s ceremony brought together individuals and families from across the globe, uniting them in a shared moment of pride and renewal. The new citizens hailed from Brazil, Canada, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Mexico, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam, each bringing unique experiences and cultural heritage that enrich the diverse fabric of the United States.
Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable opened the ceremony with heartfelt remarks, drawing parallels between the resilience of the landscape and the perseverance of those on the path to citizenship.
“The Grand Canyon endures. Life will return, forests will regrow, and the canyon will remain a symbol of strength and renewal,” Keable said, noting ongoing fire management efforts on the North Rim. “In many ways, this mirrors the journey you have taken to become U.S. citizens. The path to citizenship is not always easy. It requires perseverance, courage, and a steadfast belief in building a better future.”
The ceremony featured a presentation of colors by the Air Force ROTC Honor Guard from Northern Arizona University and a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Audrey Stone of the Juniper Hill Band. U.S. Magistrate Judge Camille D. Bibles presided over the proceedings, with U.S. District Court Deputy Clerk Christina Davison administering the Oath of Allegiance.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the A-Train Sound provided a musical performance that further enhanced the celebration.
This event was part of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ annual nationwide celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, which recognizes the importance of citizenship and the principles of freedom and democracy enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
As friends and family members gathered to cheer on their loved ones, the ceremony concluded with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Supervisory Immigration Services Officer Ramon Melocarela. The newly naturalized citizens then received their certificates and took photos to commemorate the milestone, surrounded by the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
Superintendent Keable closed his remarks by welcoming the group to their new roles as U.S. citizens: “Today marks a new beginning. As you stand here surrounded by the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, know that your journey and your contributions will help shape the future of this nation.”
This year’s ceremony served as a powerful reminder of unity, diversity, and the shared values that bind communities together. The Grand Canyon, a symbol of resilience and renewal, provided a fitting backdrop for welcoming these 29 new citizens to the United States of America.
This year’s ceremony brought together individuals and families from across the globe, uniting them in a shared moment of pride and renewal. The new citizens hailed from Brazil, Canada, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Mexico, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam, each bringing unique experiences and cultural heritage that enrich the diverse fabric of the United States.
Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable opened the ceremony with heartfelt remarks, drawing parallels between the resilience of the landscape and the perseverance of those on the path to citizenship.
“The Grand Canyon endures. Life will return, forests will regrow, and the canyon will remain a symbol of strength and renewal,” Keable said, noting ongoing fire management efforts on the North Rim. “In many ways, this mirrors the journey you have taken to become U.S. citizens. The path to citizenship is not always easy. It requires perseverance, courage, and a steadfast belief in building a better future.”
The ceremony featured a presentation of colors by the Air Force ROTC Honor Guard from Northern Arizona University and a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Audrey Stone of the Juniper Hill Band. U.S. Magistrate Judge Camille D. Bibles presided over the proceedings, with U.S. District Court Deputy Clerk Christina Davison administering the Oath of Allegiance.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the A-Train Sound provided a musical performance that further enhanced the celebration.
This event was part of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ annual nationwide celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, which recognizes the importance of citizenship and the principles of freedom and democracy enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
As friends and family members gathered to cheer on their loved ones, the ceremony concluded with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Supervisory Immigration Services Officer Ramon Melocarela. The newly naturalized citizens then received their certificates and took photos to commemorate the milestone, surrounded by the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
Superintendent Keable closed his remarks by welcoming the group to their new roles as U.S. citizens: “Today marks a new beginning. As you stand here surrounded by the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, know that your journey and your contributions will help shape the future of this nation.”
This year’s ceremony served as a powerful reminder of unity, diversity, and the shared values that bind communities together. The Grand Canyon, a symbol of resilience and renewal, provided a fitting backdrop for welcoming these 29 new citizens to the United States of America.