Joni Mitchell Sworn In as a United States Citizen

Joni Mitchell swears in as an American citizen after six decades in the United States

A journey that began 62 years ago, Joni Mitchell wrote in an Instagram caption accompanying a photograph of herself holding an American flag in front of dual U.S. and Department of Homeland Security flags.

The legendary singer-songwriter has finally been sworn in as an American citizen. Mitchell moved from Canada to the United States in 1965, living first in Detroit, then New York, and ultimately settling in California, where she remains today.

For years, reports indicated that Mitchell held dual citizenship, but a CBC report from March clarified that she had not yet naturalized. The official citizenship ceremony marks the formal conclusion of a residency spanning more than six decades.

The New York Times songwriter list exclusion and subsequent questions of timing

Earlier this year, The New York Times published a list of the greatest living American songwriters that omitted Mitchell. The newspaper explained the exclusion by pointing out that Mitchell remained a Canadian citizen despite her long-term residence in California.

With her recent naturalization, the publication may need to amend the ranking. The sudden timing of the citizenship oath after more than sixty years prompted questions among observers regarding whether the current political climate influenced her decision.

During an appearance leading a Joni Jam at the Hollywood Bowl, Mitchell shouted Fuck Donald Trump into the microphone. She followed the remark by stating, I wish I could vote – I’m a Canadian. I’m one of those lousy immigrants.

Amanda Seyfried performs Mitchell song as Rhino releases audiophile album

Mitchell first crossed the border into the United States in 1965.