Harvard Business School hosted a naturalization ceremony in Klarman Hall on Thursday, welcoming 175 immigrants from 46 countries as they took their oaths of U.S. citizenship.
District Judge Indira Talwani of the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts presided over the event.
Katia Muser, senior director of software delivery at HBS, opened the ceremony by emphasizing the profound significance of becoming a U.S. citizen. Drawing on her own international upbringing, Muser spoke about the sacrifices, resilience, and courage required for such a journey.
“Today, we’re not just celebrating the official recognition of your new citizenship but also honoring the journey that has brought each of you here to this remarkable milestone,” Muser said.
She shared her experiences growing up in Algeria, Switzerland, Cameroon, and New York City, noting how gaining U.S. citizenship in 2017 transformed her sense of belonging and gave her a voice in the democratic process.
“With the right to vote, I gained the power to express my opinions, influence my communities, and help shape the future,” she added.
Talwani, who shared her story as the child of immigrants from Germany and India, highlighted the complex history of immigration and citizenship in the U.S. while reinforcing the importance of participation in the nation’s democratic processes.
“Immigrants like you have enriched this nation’s culture in theater, music, writing, arts, and architecture; our science research and innovation; and even our diplomacy and philosophy,” she said.
Talwani also reflected on the responsibilities that come with citizenship, emphasizing the role of new citizens in supporting and defending the U.S. Constitution, serving on juries, and voting.
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“You have a valuable perspective as an immigrant here on what matters in your community, your schools, your towns, and in our local, state, and national politics,” Talwani said.
Tiana Barrett, one of the newly naturalized citizens in attendance, said the event resonated with her.
“I can actually travel back home to see my grandma now,” Barrett said. “I was scared I wouldn’t be able to on time. But now I can, and that really means a lot to me.”
For Joao Denhus, another one of the honorees, the moment marked a turning point, “a new start where we can participate more in the democracy and being part of the country.”
The event concluded with a special performance by Deannah Blemur, a senior faculty support specialist at HBS, who sang “Émigré” by Alela Diane, a song which she said is “of reflection and freedom.”
The event concluded with a final recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and applause from friends and family.
—Staff writer Kyle Baek can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on X @KBaek53453.
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