More than 100 new Citizens sworn in during Naturalization Ceremony

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – As immigration continues to dominate headlines nationwide, today in Chattanooga, the focus was on celebration.

More than 100 applicants officially became American citizens during a naturalization ceremony held by the Eastern District of Tennessee.

Imagine leaving behind everything you have ever known: your home, your language, even your country, for a chance at something better.

For some, that journey begins through immigration.

For others, through adoption.

Inside the courthouse, excitement, laughter, and tears of joy filled the room as applicants from around the world took their Oath of Allegiance.

With Judge Nicholas Whittenburg presiding, the ceremony marked the end of years, sometimes decades, of waiting.

The Pilanga family, originally from the Philippines, waved American flags and shouted “America!” as they celebrated their achievement.

The Pilanga family

“We’re so happy. Me and all of my family were part of the ceremony today,” said Lance Pilanga, a newly naturalized U.S. citizen. “It’s such a long process, but it’s totally worth it. It’s such a really, really good feeling to be here today.”

For Oksana Phillips, originally from Ukraine, the moment felt surreal.

“I cannot believe it happened,” Phillips cheered.

She expands on what the milestone means to her.

“You can achieve it if you really want. I believe in God, believe in America, and never give up.”

For Ruy Ayala, the journey took 30 years.

“In my case, it’s been 30 years waiting since my mom first filed my petition,” Ayala explained. “So, this is it.”

In a matter of minutes, pledging their allegiance, their futures changed forever.

“As someone who’s officially a citizen of the United States, I encourage everybody to practice our rights, to defend democracy, to defend our Constitution with integrity, respect, and dignity,” Pilanga stated proudly.

News 12’s Lillian Yi also shared her congratulations, holding up her own certificate of adoption, a reminder that for many, becoming American begins in different ways, but carries the same meaning.

“Congratulations to our newest American citizens,” she expressed. “I know how much this means to all of you, because it means everything to me.”

For those sworn in today, the journey may have been long.

But the promise of belonging, opportunity, and hope now officially begins.

And for more than 100 new Americans, that promise is finally home.