The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has announced that Misty Copeland, Principal Dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, will be the keynote speaker for their annual Naturalization Ceremony this year.

During the event, more than 50 people will take the oath of citizenship, with Copeland being the first Black woman to deliver the keynote address in Monticello’s history.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to speak at Monticello on July 4. This event and its long tradition symbolize the strength we attain in blending unique cultures and identities,” Copeland said. “I look forward to welcoming our new citizens with open arms and hearing their stories that will now be a part of the American story.”

Misty Copeland became the first Black woman to be promoted to Principal Dancer in the American Ballet Theatre’s 75-year history in 2015. She is also known for her advocacy for diversity in dance and her foundation’s initiatives, such as BE BOLD, which aim to promote inclusivity.

“Ms. Copeland is an American icon whose journey embodies the entangled histories, and the principles of progress and unity that infuse Monticello,” said Dr. Jane Kamensky, president of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation. “We are honored to have her join us in celebration of Thomas Jefferson’s belief that immigrants are a source of strength for our country, contributing to the success of our American experiment.”

This event is free and open to the public, but you need to sign up in advance.

Registration and more information can be found here.

The event will be broadcast via livestream here.