Normally, an appearance before the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri can be intimidating.
That wasn't the case Friday, and federal Judge Willie Epps Jr. made sure those attending a naturalization ceremony knew this was a special and different type of proceeding.
"This is going to be cool," he said. "Don't worry."
Epps presided over the ceremony that saw 80 people become American citizens.
Prior to their swearing in at the Missouri National Guard Headquarters on Militia Drive, each of those who were becoming naturalized were introduced and said from what country they originated. Mexico, Cuba, China, Congo, Russia and the Philippines were among the 36 countries named.
"Hello, my fellow citizens. Now, how does that feel?" Epps told the group after they took the Oath of Allegiance. "This country just became a better place to live. It's raining outside, but the sun is shining in here."
Epps talked about how the group came from various backgrounds, searching for better lives for themselves and their families.
"Immigrants have played a critical role in our county," he said. "Our society continues to be powered by immigrants through their ingenuity, diligence and their drive. At times, it seems we've taken more than we have given because immigrants have fought and died for this country."
Epps said Friday was a day to celebrate the wealth of skills and perspectives these new citizens have chosen to bring to the United States. He said they will make all of us stronger and wiser people.
"I understand the process has not been easy. It has not been quick; it has not been casual," Epps said. "Some of you have waited and worked for years for this very moment. You have learned that our nation upholds liberty and equality for all."
To these new citizens, Epps said, an up-close observation of this democracy may have seemed as if it was patterned after a roller coaster ride.
"You know from our recent elections and political debates how things can ebb and flow, and it may cause some of you to think, 'What am I getting into' by becoming a U.S. citizen," he said. "But, let me tell you, you've studied our history and that history should answer that question because the fact is over 200 years ago, we made a decision about what type of country we wanted to be, and while we're not there yet, our ideals on which this country was founded continue. And we cannot get there without you."
Also greeting the new citizens was Maj. Pesseglou Yoma of the Missouri National Guard. In 2009, Yoma, who is a native of Togo, became a U.S. citizen and said he remembered the work it took to go through the process.
"You have proven above all that you are of good character and that this nation can count on each of you at any time," Yoma said. "Thank you for wanting to bring your talent and your knowledge to this country."
Diyanira Richards, of Jefferson City, was a citizen of Bolivia, South America, prior to Friday. She said it took about a year for her to get through the process, but it was worth it.
"It's the world," Richards said. "It alleviates a lot of worry for us in the current climate of the country. It is definitely one of her dreams to say, 'I'm an American.'"