For a third consecutive season, Sunnylands hosted a naturalization ceremony in the West Gardens on January 21.
Fifty immigrants from 28 countries – including Mexico, the Philippines, Germany, Australia, and the Netherlands – swore the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Nine of the newly sworn-in citizens were active members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
In a welcoming speech, Sunnylands President David Lane said the ceremony underscored Walter and Leonore Annenberg’s commitment to civic engagement. He urged the new citizens to be active in the democratic process.
“You now have the right to vote and to advocate for the issues that matter most to you,” he said. “Becoming a citizen is about more than gaining legal status; it’s about becoming a full and active member of society—working together and striving to make our communities a better place for everyone.”
