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America 250: 150 people become US citizens at Mount Vernon
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- On July 4th, 150 individuals from 50 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens at Mount Vernon, marking America's 250th birthday and symbolically linking their new citizenship to the nation's founding history.
- Among the new citizens was U.S. Marine Sgt. Diakaria Sangare from Guinea, who proudly wore his Dress Blue uniform and reflected on the rigorous citizenship process involving tests, interviews, and background checks.
- The ceremony included the national anthem, an Oath of Allegiance, and the Pledge of Allegiance, with participants standing when their countries were called, symbolizing the diverse origins of America's new citizens.
- Historian Douglas Bradburn emphasized that the stories of the new citizens now become integral to American history, highlighting the shared identity and heritage connected to George Washington and the nation's founding.
- A George Washington re-enactor welcomed the new citizens, declaring that the title "American" now belonged to them equally and warmly saying, "Welcome home," underscoring the inclusive spirit of the occasion.
