Mayor celebrates new citizens at Tulsa's community welcome ceremony

The U.S. Naturalization Ceremony held in Tulsa on May 8, 2025, celebrated the welcoming of new citizens into the community. The event highlighted the rich cultural heritage of Tulsa, emphasizing its historical significance and the diverse backgrounds of the individuals becoming citizens.

During the ceremony, the mayor spoke passionately about the symbolism of the city’s flag. The blue at the top represents the Arkansas River, while the gold bar signifies Tulsa's historical status as the "oil capital of the world" in the early 1900s. The beige section reflects the warmth of the community, and the red symbolizes the bloodshed from the Tulsa Race Massacre. Central to the flag is a star, representing the future and the collective potential of the community.

The mayor encouraged the new citizens to engage actively in local governance, stating that citizenship is not only an honor but also an obligation to serve and contribute to the community. He expressed excitement about building a future together with the 17 individuals from 12 different countries who were being naturalized.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of citizenship certificates to the new Americans, marking a significant milestone in their lives and reinforcing the importance of community involvement. The event underscored Tulsa's commitment to inclusivity and the celebration of its diverse heritage.