U.S. NATURALIZATION CEREMONIES


Mayor Rogero speaks at an U.S. Naturalization Ceremony


Mayor Rogero regularly welcomes attendees at the U.S. Naturalization Ceremonies in the Main Assembly Room of the City County Building. Attendees take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance at the formal ceremony to become official citizens of the United States.

FEBRUARY 26, 2019

At a special Naturalization Ceremony, Feb. 26, 2019, Knoxville welcomed 126 new American citizens from 42 countries at the City County Building in Downtown Knoxville. Mayor Madeline Rogero welcomed the group at the event, who are now officially starting their journey as citizens. View a Facebook Photo Gallery from the Ceremony.

JULY 24, 2018

On July 24, 2018, more than 150 citizens originating from nearly 50 countries around the world recited the Pledge of Allegiance for the first time as U.S. citizens after becoming naturalized in Knoxville on Tuesday, July 24, in the City County Building. 

JANUARY 12, 2018

During a ceremony that takes place in East Tennessee only twice a year, 147 individuals from 45 different countries became American citizens on Friday, Jan. 12, 2018. Chief United States Magistrate Judge, the Honorable C. Clifford Shirley, Jr., presided over the naturalization ceremony held in the Main Assembly Room of the City County Building. The room was filled to capacity with solemn oath-takers, proud family members and more than a few antsy children dressed in their fanciest clothes. Knoxville City Mayor Madeline Rogero and Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett welcomed ceremony participants and their guests, encouraging everyone to register to vote and take part in local government as well as their neighborhood groups. Because he was performing the ceremony for the final time before his imminent retirement, Judge Shirley performed the keynote address himself. He told the soon-to-be citizens that Knoxville is a welcoming city that embraces its diversity. View a Facebook Photo Gallery from the Ceremony.