Judges Welcome New Citizens at Ballparks

Federal judges presided over naturalization ceremonies at major league ballparks, in a special observation of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day that brought the courts into community settings.

“Federal courts bring the Constitution into our communities to observe Constitution Day and Citizenship Day with naturalization ceremonies as a real-life civics lesson for young people and adults,” said U.S. Magistrate Judge Sean Flynn, who administered the Oath of Allegiance to 35 new U.S. citizens at a Tampa Bay Rays game on Sept. 9.

Since 2019, federal courts have been naturalizing citizens at major league and minor league baseball games from August through October in observance of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. While Constitution Day is officially observed on Sept. 17, the date the Constitution was signed in Philadelphia in 1787, courts often conduct special events up to a month before or after the anniversary.

Judges hope their participation heightens awareness of the role of the Constitution and the courts in daily life and encourages people to take a greater interest in the rule of law.

“This observance gives us the opportunity to celebrate our aspirations for the nation, whether we are citizens by birth or naturalization,” said U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer, who welcomed 50 new U.S. citizens at Oracle Park in San Francisco on Aug. 30. “Naturalization ceremonies at baseball games bring courts and communities together to enjoy a welcoming, family experience.”