Welcome to Seattle Center
Seattle Center hosted the 37th Annual Naturalization Ceremony, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Monday July 4th at the Fisher Pavilion, and invited the public to observe as The Honorable Ricardo S. Martinez, Chief United States District Judge for the Western District of Washington, swore-in candidates as new citizens of the United States of America. It was an important day for the new citizens, who come from diverse cultures across the globe, to make the United States–and Seattle–their new home.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services District 41 Director Anne Corsano presented the candidates at this event which reaffirmed the meaning of United States citizenship. It was an important day for the new citizens, who come from diverse cultures across the globe.
Seattle Center, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington partner to produce the Naturalization Ceremony, held annually at Seattle Center for the past 36 years (event not held in 2020). Several local and national dignitaries were present and spoke at the event. All countries represented were announced and the eldest applicant and military personnel for citizenship introduced.
The program commenced with the posting of the Colors by the Washington State Guard and singing of the national anthem by soloist Maria Plancich Kesovija, accompanied by Navy Band Northwest, followed by a Native American welcome by performers Gene Tagaban, storyteller, and musicians Peter Ali and Swil Kanim. Gospel singer Josephine Howell gave her heartfelt rendition of God Bless America. The Children of our Nations led the new citizens in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for their first time as U.S. citizens.
Navy Band Northwest performed at 11:30am with the ceremony beginning at 12:00pm.
