Trump Calls on Newly Naturalized Citizens to Protect and Uphold the American Way of Life in New Video
President Trump’s naturalization video urges immigrants to embrace American culture as “yours to preserve,” highlighting traditional values and constitutional rights.
At naturalization ceremonies across the United States, a new video message from President Donald Trump will now greet immigrants as they receive American citizenship, underscoring the expectation that newcomers play an active role in upholding the nation’s foundational principles. The video, which will be played at every ceremony nationwide, frames U.S. citizenship as both a privilege and a profound duty.
“Today you receive the greatest gift ever granted by human hands: you become a citizen of the United States of America,” Trump states in the address. He extends a warm welcome, reminding new citizens that, regardless of their country of origin, they are now woven into the fabric of a storied national community. “With this sacred honor comes the highest responsibility. As you know, the American way of life is unique in all the world. And as Americans, we must fiercely guard it and defend it.”
The president’s remarks emphasize a return to traditional values, highlighting the importance of hard work, meritocracy, and the rule of law. “In this country, we believe in hard work, a merit system and equality of opportunity. We believe in self-government and the fair, equal and impartial rule of law. And we cherish our liberty and our God-given rights to free speech, the free exercise of religion and the right to keep and bear arms,” Trump continues. He stresses that this culture is now entrusted to the new citizens, calling on them to be vigilant guardians of both their rights and responsibilities.
This message arrives at a period when the routes to legal permanent residence have become increasingly restrictive, elevating the significance of naturalization for those who meet eligibility requirements. In 2024 alone, the number of individuals attaining U.S. citizenship surpassed 800,000—a notable figure amid stepped-up enforcement against illegal immigration and heightened scrutiny of asylum claims by the current administration.
Recent actions, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles, have led to unrest and the deployment of the National Guard, further highlighting the tension surrounding immigration issues. These developments underscore the administration’s commitment to a more stringent approach, reflecting policies reminiscent of Trump’s first term, including enhanced border security and increased deportations.
The introduction of Trump’s video also represents a symbolic break from the previous administration’s tone. During his presidency, Joe Biden acknowledged immigrants’ courage and optimism, thanking them for believing in America’s promise and ideals. In contrast, Trump’s address strongly emphasizes assimilation and the preservation of American traditions, positioning new citizens not just as residents but as active stewards of the nation’s cultural inheritance.
As the process of becoming a U.S. citizen becomes increasingly significant, naturalization ceremonies will now serve as both a celebration and a call to action—reminding each new American of the weighty legacy they inherit and the critical role they play in shaping the country’s future.
