Press release from Redwood National and State Parks:

On August 7th at Redwood National and State Parks, under clear skies and a canopy of coastal redwoods, 50 people raised their right hands to become the newest citizens of the United States. The applicants came from 22 countries around the world, including South Africa, the Philippines, Italy, and Laos.

The event opened with the national anthem sung by Park Ranger Paige Lebs. Several dignitaries, including North Coast Redwoods District Superintendent Victor Bjelajac and Humboldt County Supervisor Steve Madrone, offered welcoming remarks noting the symbolic connection between the support that citizens in America give one another and how redwood tree roots support each other.

The newest citizens and their family members were able to celebrate this momentous occasion in one of their new country’s most breathtaking places. For many, it was their first visit to the park, and they stood in awe beneath the 286-foot tall Big Tree.

United States Citizen and Immigration Services and the National Park Service have a signed a Memorandum of Understanding that advances the meaning and stature of citizenship by building connections between new citizens and America’s parks. Signed in 2006, and renewed in 2021, the agreement has led to special naturalization ceremonies held at many of the 430 places safeguarded by the National Park Service.

Ceremonies are held in such iconic places as Ellis Island, Yosemite National Park, Cesar Chavez National Monument, Acadia National Park, Death Valley National Park, and numerous memorial parks on the National Mall. The renewed MOU further strengthens collaborative efforts to hold ceremonies at locations that best represent the strength and spirit of the United States and supports the promotion of citizenship and naturalization. Redwood National and State Parks is honored to be a part of such an important event in the lives of those who participated in the ceremony.