SHADWELL, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – A day of firsts at Monticello’s 2024 Independence Day and Naturalization Ceremony at Thomas Jefferson’s home. The first African-American female keynote speaker was introduced by the first woman as President of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, in a naturalization court session presided over partially by the first female presiding judge of the U.S. District Court of Western Virginia with 74 immigrants spending their first day as U.S. citizens. July 4, 2024 is Elizabeth K. Dillon’s first day as the Charlottesville federal court’s presiding judge, and this naturalization ceremony was her first official act in that role. She presided along with Judge Albert Diaz, who in July 2023 became the first Hispanic jurist to become presiding judge of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond.

Misty Copeland
Misty Copeland becomes first black woman as keynote speaker at Monticello naturalization ceremony

Thomas Jefferson Foundation President Jane Komensky, the first female to have that distinction, upon introducing Misty Copeland said, “Misty Copeland is the first black woman to grace this podium on this day… she will not be the last.”

“This space 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,” Copeland said.
“This place with its rich history and profound legacy reminds us of the enduring promise of America. It is particularly meaningful for me as an African-American, and the first African-American principal ballerina at the American Ballet Theater, America’s national ballet company, to stand here as a testament to the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead.”
Copeland continued, “I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me, who fought tirelessly for equality and broke barriers so 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.”
“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 the shared journey, to contributing your talents, your values, and your dream toward the collective future we are building together.”

Elizabeth K. Dillon, on her first day as the first female presiding judge of the U.S. District Court of Western Virginia introduced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia Christopher Kavanaugh to present the 74 applicants, and the oath was presented by 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Albert Diaz who shared his story as the first in his family to graduate from college after his parents moved to the U.S. mainland from Puerto Rico.

US citizenship oath
Some of 74 taking the U.S. citizenship oath July 4, 2024 at Monticello

After taking the oath, some of the new citizens spoke of their journeys and what it means to them.
One grateful new citizens exclaimed, “To all soldiers of the past who have had to leave their families, suffer the flesh, break their bones… or give their lives so that the miracle of national and political freedom might still be ours today… thank you.”
Another shared her story of being “from Hong Kong, not China”.
Identifying herself only as Sharon, she tearfully thanked her family.
“We have 2-million people on the street and my husband brought me to the U.S. and saved my life… thank you.”

Click here to watch the ceremony and hear the stories of those who took the oath as new U.S. citizens.