New Citizens Sworn in at Grand Canyon

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. - Thirteen new citizens took their oath of allegiance during a naturalization ceremony hosted by Grand Canyon National Park and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at the Grand Canyon’s Mather Point Amphitheater on Sept. 28, 2019.

The candidates were able to look upon the iconic landscape during the ceremony, which took place on National Public Lands Day, and have their first experience of visiting public lands as a citizen and knowing these lands are part of their new responsibilities.

The naturalization ceremony began with a traditional welcome from Havasupai elder Diana Sue Uqualla. NPS Photo

The ceremony began with a traditional welcome from Havasupai elder Diana Sue Uqualla. The Havasupai are one of the 11 tribes traditionally associated with the Grand Canyon, and are known as the guardians of the Grand Canyon.

The welcoming spirit was emphasized during speeches throughout the ceremony.

“You have come from many places, and you, as those who came before you, will enrich our lives, communities, and our nation with what you bring,” said Grand Canyon National Park Acting Superintendent Lisa Carrico. “Today, we add you and your stories to the history of Grand Canyon.”

USCIS presented 13 citizenship candidates to Magistrate Judge Camille Bibles who presided over the ceremony. The candidates originated from the following 11 countries: Afghanistan, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, El Salvador, Germany, India, Mexico, Philippines, United Kingdom and Uruguay.

Grand Canyon National Park would like to thank the Northern Arizona University Color Guard for their presentation of colors, and the U.S. Army Field Band brass quintet for their performance, which included the national anthem.

Thirteen new citizens took their oath of allegiance during a naturalization ceremony hosted by Grand Canyon National Park. NPS Photo