[Archived] City of Alexandria Celebrates Citizenship Day 2015 with Record-Breaking Naturalization Ceremony

For Immediate Release: September 8, 2015

The City of Alexandria will hold its annual Citizenship Day celebration on September 17, at 11 a.m., in Market Square (301 King St.). New this year, the ceremony will be conducted by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, with United States District Court Judge Gerald Bruce Lee and United States Magistrate Judge Teresa C. Buchanan presiding.   Approximately 100 candidates for citizenship will take the Oath of Allegiance to become U.S. citizens, more than at any previous Citizenship Day event in Alexandria.

"The Citizenship Day celebration is always an inspiring and moving event," said Alexandria Mayor William D. Euille, who will make remarks at the ceremony.  "This year we are thrilled to welcome so many new Americans.  These citizens, many of whom have lived here for years, help strengthen the fabric of our diverse community."

To become a naturalized citizen, an individual must meet federal requirements, including a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States; ability to read, write and speak English; knowledge and understanding of United States history and government; good moral character; and attachment to constitutional principles.

Constitution Day and Citizenship Day commemorates the adoption of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, and celebrates American citizenship. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to discuss and cherish the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship in the United States, and honor both native-born and naturalized citizens.

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held in the Council Chambers, located on the second floor of City Hall.

For media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.