Nearly 50 New U.S. Citizens take oath at Chicago Botanic Garden

National -

September 29, 2026

GLENCOE, Ill. – RealEstateRama – The Chicago Botanic Garden will host 49 new U.S. citizens from 27 countries and their families on Monday, September 28, 2026, for a special naturalization ceremony beginning at 11 a.m.

U.S. District Judge Manish S. Shah will administer the Oath of Allegiance. U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, who represents Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, will offer congratulatory remarks to the new citizens.

Gretchen Baker, president and CEO of the Chicago Botanic Garden, will deliver welcoming remarks.

“In a place that celebrates the natural beauty of our world, we are honored to welcome people from 27 countries as our newest American citizens,” said Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall. “Each has taken a different path to this day, and each brings something of their own to our country. We are grateful to the Chicago Botanic Garden for hosting us on this special day.”

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois administers the Oath of Allegiance to thousands of new citizens each year.

Event Details

What: Naturalization ceremony for 49 new U.S. citizens from 27 countries

When: Monday, September 28, 2026 | Ceremony at 11 a.m.

Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022

Who: Hon. Manish S. Shah, U.S. District Judge; U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, Illinois’ 10th Congressional

District; Gretchen Baker, president and CEO

Members of the media who wish to attend should RSVP to Sean Lewis at
.