If you are familiar with past U.S. policies, you are likely aware of a particularly attractive policy known as birthright citizenship. As long as a child is born in the United States, they can apply for U.S. citizenship and enjoy all the benefits of American society. This has led many women to travel to the U.S. to give birth, as it is much simpler than applying for a U.S. Green Card through other channels. However, recently, current U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to abolish the birthright citizenship policy, causing a significant stir in society. Below, we provide a detailed overview of the situation.
I. The Long-standing History of Birthright Citizenship in the U.S.
If you have some understanding of U.S. history, you will find that the U.S. birthright citizenship policy has been in place for many years. Under this policy, any child born in the United States is entitled to the rights of U.S. citizenship and all associated benefits; it is fair to say this policy has been highly attractive. At the same time, however, some U.S. professionals view this policy as absurd, and current U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed strong disapproval of it. Consequently, he intends to abolish this birthright citizenship policy via executive order during his term.
II. Abolishing Birthright Citizenship Gains Support Among Many Americans
Since President Trump proposed abolishing birthright citizenship, many Americans have actually expressed strong support for this view, particularly Republican lawmakers, who also believe the ban issued by the President is highly commendable. They have consistently supported comprehensive U.S. immigration reform and are strongly in favor of canceling this birthright citizenship.
III. Abolishing Birthright Citizenship Has Significant Implications and Involves the Constitution
If you examine the U.S. birthright citizenship policy, you will find that it can be traced back to English common law. However, the United States formally established this policy after the American Civil War, as reflected in the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. In fact, the primary purpose of establishing such an amendment at the time was to secure citizenship rights for freed Black people. Later, however, it became linked to immigration. Once this connection was established, it became a common phenomenon for children born in the U.S. to leave the country and then apply for legal U.S. status upon reaching the age of 18.