The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana held a naturalization ceremony on March 3, where 50 petitioners became United States citizens. The event was presided over by Judge Lance M. Africk and included participation from representatives of the Daughters of the American Revolution, who led attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Naturalization ceremonies mark an important milestone for immigrants as they officially become U.S. citizens, often after years of preparation and dedication to learning about American civics and values.
During the ceremony, Judge Africk introduced keynote speaker David Courcelle, recently appointed United States Attorney. Courcelle shared his personal connection to naturalization, describing how he was born in Japan on a U.S. Naval Base and recalling his mother’s journey to citizenship. “She eventually did become a U.S. citizen and was naturalized in the very courthouse where he now tries cases as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana,” Courcelle said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Renee Goudeau presented statements regarding petitioners’ eligibility for citizenship and handled requests for name changes before announcing the names of all 50 new citizens. After granting name change requests, Deputy Clerk Bridget Gregory administered the Oath of Allegiance.
Judge Africk concluded by reflecting on his own family’s immigration story: “He spoke of his own ancestors’ journeys to becoming American citizens and the pride he feels for them now that he serves as a U.S. District Judge.” The new citizens received their certificates and took photos with their families.
