There’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than Monticello! Watch as we mark the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and welcome more than 70 new citizens at our 62nd annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony.
Misty Copeland, ballerina, author, and philanthropist, delivered the keynote address. (Her remarks begin at 24:25.)
Good morning and welcome! Today, we gather to celebrate a momentous occasion in your lives. This room is filled with hope, determination, and the promise of new beginnings. It is an honor to stand before you as you take this important step toward becoming citizens of the United States of America.
As I stand here at Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, I am deeply humbled by the significance of this moment. Jefferson, a Founding Father, authored the Declaration of Independence, a document that enshrines the principles of freedom and equality. These ideals have guided our nation for centuries, shaping the society we live in today. Monticello is not just a historical landmark but a symbol of the American journey — a journey towards liberty, justice , and the pursuit of happiness for all.
Today, as we welcome new citizens, we continue to strive for Jefferson's vision of a nation where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This place, with its rich history and profound legacy, reminds us of the endur ing promise of America. It is particularly meaningful for me, as an African American woman and the first African American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, to stand here as a testament to the progress we have made and the work that still lie s ahead.
My journey to this stage has been marked by perseverance and passion, much like your journeys to this ceremony. My story, like yours, is a testament to the possibilities that arise when hard work meets opportunity. I stand on the shoulders of thos e who came before me, who fought tirelessly for equality and broke barriers so that future generations could dream bigger and reach higher. Monticello, too, stands as a reminder of the complex history of our nation — one that includes both great achievements and profound struggles.
In my life and career, I have often drawn strength from the stories of those who overcame incredible odds. As a young girl, I faced numerous challenges, but I never lost sight of my dream. It was the unwavering belief in my potenti al, supported by mentors and a community that believed in me, that allowed me to succeed. Similarly, your journeys to citizenship are stories of resilience, determination, and hope. Each of you has faced your own unique challenges and made sacrifices to be here today.
Our country is a beautiful tapestry, woven from the threads of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and stories. Each of you brings a unique thread, adding richness and vibrancy to the American story. Your decision to become citizens signifies your commitment to this shared journey, to contributing your talents, your values, and your dreams to the collective future we are building together.
In this room, we transcend political lines and unite in the shared values that define us as Americans: liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. These values are not bound by party or ideology but are the foundation upon which our nation stands. Your presence here today is a testament to the enduring spirit of these ideals.
You are joining a nation that thri ves on the contributions of its people. From the arts to sciences, from entrepreneurship to public service, it is your innovation, your creativity, and your dedication that will shape the future of America. Your journey, your sacrifices, and your hard work enrich the fabric of our society.
I encourage you to embrace the opportunities and responsibilities that come with your new citizenship. Engage in your communities, exercise your right to vote, and lend your voice to the conversations that shape our democ racy. Celebrate your heritage while embracing the shared identity of being an American. In this balance, you will find strength and purpose.
Today, as you take the oath of citizenship, remember that you are not just pledging allegiance to a flag or a natio n, but to a set of ideals that unite us all. You are becoming part of a legacy of individuals who have sought freedom, opportunity, and a better life. You are the embodiment of the American dream.
In closing, I want to leave you with a message of hope and inspiration. Just as a dancer transforms dedication and passion into art, so too can you transform your dreams into reality. Your journey does not end here; it begins anew. And with every step, you contribute to the rhythm and harmony of this incredible na tion.
Congratulations to each and every one of you. Welcome
to the American family. Together, we will continue to build
a brighter, more inclusive, and more prosperous future.
