"And when we're talking about the Dreamers, let us remember what President Reagan said in his last speech as president of the United States," she said.
Pelosi then urged lawmakers to read the "beautiful speech" before quoting it.
She continued: "Our common cause is to find and forge a way forward for our country. Let us stand for the people to promote liberty and justice for all as we pledge every day. And always, always keep our nation safe from threats old and new, from terrorism and cyber warfare overseas and here at home to protect and defend."
Holding their right hands up, House members were sworn in together Thursday under the administration of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
They will take part in the ceremonial swearings-in this afternoon.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi just took her oath of office and called the House to order.
"I now call the House to order on behalf of all of America's children. Go kids!" she said moments after being sworn in.
Before taking the oath, she called up her grandchildren, as well as any other children who wanted to join her.
Nancy Pelosi opened her first speech as speaker of the House by calling for respect among colleagues and the truth.
"We have no illusions that our work will be easy and that all of us in this chamber will always agree, but let each of us pledge that when we disagree, we respect each other and we respect the truth," she said.
"We will debate in advance good ideas no matter where they come from, and in that spirit, Democrats will be offering the Senate Republican appropriations legislation to reopen government later today," she said.
During her speech, Pelosi thanked loved ones and friends and welcomed the "transformative freshman class."
"When our new members take the oath, our Congress will be refreshed and our democracy will be strengthened by their optimism, idealism and patriotism of this transformative freshman class. Congratulations to all of you in the freshman class. Working together we will redeem the promise of the American dream for every family, advancing progress for every community," she said.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s name was just put up on a sign in the US Capitol. The plaque replaces one that had former House Speaker Paul Ryan’s name on it, which has already been removed.
Someone could be seen installing the sign as Pelosi spoke on the House floor.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a Republican from California, welcomed lawmakers to the first day of the 116th Congress before introducing newly-elected House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
"Today marks a new chapter in this House pursuit of a more perfect union. The country knows Nancy Pelosi as an experienced leader with three decades of service in Congress, a fighter for her causes and a true trail blazer. Even when we disagree with one another completely, it is important to remember that we are bounded together in a common cause, our love for America," he said.
After speaking briefly, McCarthy handed Pelosi the gavel.
During his remarks, McCarthy went on to talk about divided government.
"When we work together, we succeed together as one nation. We're now entering a period of divided government, but that is no excuse for gridlock or inaction," he said. "We are at our best when we focus not on retribution but on building a more perfect union. But while we seek cooperation, there is one core principle upon which we will not compromise, Republicans will always choose personal freedom over government control."
Nancy Pelosi was just elected speaker of the House, garnering 220 votes from her colleagues.
Twelve Democrats, however, didn't vote for her.
Here's who they voted for instead:
Rep. Nancy Pelosi has officially been elected the speaker of the House.
She defeated GOP nominee Kevin McCarthy, winning 220 votes.