On September 5, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana held a naturalization ceremony in which 41 petitioners became United States citizens. The Honorable Barry W. Ashe, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana, presided over the ceremony. In his opening remarks, Judge Ashe welcomed and congratulated the petitioners then invited everyone to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance which was led by representatives from the Daughters of the American Revolution. Judge Ashe then invited keynote speaker Ana Gershanik to provide remarks. Gershanik spoke of how she came to America with her husband from Argentina with the intention of staying only one year but has now lived here for more than four decades because of the incredible opportunities afforded. Her passion for music, education, and helping others has inspired her to work with countless organizations in the New Orleans area, and she encouraged the brand-new American citizens to pursue their dreams by engaging with their community. EDLA Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Adams then issued the statement of petitioners’ eligibility for citizenship and presenting petitioners’ requests for name change.  After granting the requests for name change, Judge Ashe had each petitioner announce their name and country of origin before administering the Oath of Allegiance. Petitioners were then given their certificates and took pictures with Judge Ashe. To view photos from the ceremony, please select this link.