News Release

Jewel Cave National Monument Hosts Naturalization Ceremony Welcoming 12 New U.S. Citizens

Twelve new citizens were sworn in at Jewel Cave on September 11, 2026.

NPS Photo/ S. Hansen

News Release Date: September 16, 2026

On Sept. 11, 2026, Jewel Cave National Monument hosted a naturalization ceremony for 12 new citizens in partnership with the United States District Court, District of South Dakota and the Denver Field Office of the Department of Homeland Security. 

“It was an honor to welcome America’s newest citizens here Jewel Cave National Monument,” said Acting Superintendent Neil Heller. “Their inspirational journeys and experiences are now a part of the story of Jewel Cave.”  

A naturalization ceremony is the final step to becoming a citizen of the United States. The 12 new citizens represented eight countries: Bangladesh, Colombia, Germany, Greece, Jamaica, Mexico, Philippines and Ukraine. The ceremony was held underground in Jewel Cave’s Target Room, with each new citizen joined by up to two invited guests.  

This unique ceremony was the first documented naturalization ceremony to be held in Jewel Cave. Staff from Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Wind Cave National Park provided law enforcement assistance, while the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association and the 1881 Courthouse Museum also supported the event.  

The monument was honored to host this event and celebrate the country’s newest citizens and the journey they have taken to citizenship. 

Tags: naturalization ceremony

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