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Discussion Assignment 2: The Constitution & Birthright Citizenship

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In addition to viewing the video below, read through Section 1 of Amendment XIV (Links to an external site.) (ratified in 1868 as part of the “Civil War Amendments”). This amendment essentially guarantees citizenship (Links to an external site.) to the children of U.S. citizens and to anyone born within the country’s borders (including the children of undocumented immigrants).

During the Trump administration, there was some discussion about taking executive action on Birthright Citizenship (Links to an external site.). More recently, however, the U.S. State Department has expanded its recognition of Birthright Citizenship for children born abroad (Links to an external site.). While some argue that “Birthright Citizenship” is essential to American Democracy, others argue that it could encourage illegal immigration (Links to an external site.). The following video does a good job articulating the debate surrounding Birthright Citizenship…

Would you support or oppose an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would end, or even significantly revise, “Birthright Citizenship”? Please provide a clear, detailed rationale for your response.