Virginia Governor: Immigrants renew and bless the U.S.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger presided over a naturalization ceremony on July 4th, welcoming 75 new citizens who took their oath of loyalty to the United States. Held in the gardens of Monticello, the event underscored the significant contributions of immigrants to the nation's fabric.

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We are not just a nation of immigrants. We are a nation renewed, revitalized, and blessed by them.

"We are not just a nation of immigrants. We are a nation renewed, revitalized, and blessed by them," Spanberger stated, emphasizing the vital role new citizens play in the country's dynamism. She asserted that the influx of people from diverse backgrounds is what sustains the strength of the American social structure. Throughout history, she noted, new Americans have joined those who came before, tackling challenges, innovating, and infusing the nation with fresh vitality.

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Throughout history, new Americans have joined those who came before, tackling challenges, innovating, and infusing the nation with fresh vitality.

Spanberger framed the naturalization process as essential for addressing contemporary societal challenges. She urged for an open and hopeful embrace of human contributions, saying, "I hope we can all join you, believing in our nation with the same conviction as today, even in difficult times." The governor reflected on the foundational principles of the United States, established 250 years ago. She explained that the nation's essence is rooted not in external elements but in shared values.

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I hope we can all join you, believing in our nation with the same conviction as today, even in difficult times.

"Our founders chose to believe in a new nation: a nation not built or limited by language, religion, or loyalty to kings or queens, but on ideals," Spanberger said. She encouraged the new citizens and attendees not to take their freedom for granted, stating, "It is about choosing to believe in our founding ideals. It is about knowing that those ideals are just that: ideals, and that it is up to us to make them a reality." The governor commended the new citizens for their conscious decision to learn, study, and commit to the U.S., recognizing their conviction in choosing to become Americans.

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Our founders chose to believe in a new nation: a nation not built or limited by language, religion, or loyalty to kings or queens, but on ideals.