In American politics, few topics stir as much debate as immigration, and one of the most controversial issues recently has been birthright citizenship. President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to end this constitutional right, but can he actually do it? How would it affect the children of immigrants, including myself? 

The Foundation Behind Birthright Citizenship  

Birthright Citizenship lays on the foundation of the Fourteenth Amendment, which states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.” This principle, known as Jus Soli (right of soil), has been a fundamental part of American law since the amendment was ratified in 1868. 

The Supreme Court has upheld birthright citizenship multiple times, one example being the case United States v. Wong Kim Ark (1898), which confirmed that children born in the U.S. to non-citizens are legally citizens. Despite Trump’s claims that he can end birthright citizenship through an executive order, scholars who study the law have concluded that a stunt like that would be unconstitutional and would face challenges in court. Changing this right would require either a Supreme Court ruling or a constitutional amendment, which is highly unlikely.

The Debate and Its Implications

Trump and his supporters argue that birthright citizenship encourages illegal immigration and creates “anchor babies.” A claim they have declared for children of undocumented parents. Eliminating birthright citizenship would create a huge legal and governmental nightmare, potentially leaving a countless number of people without a place to dwell and forcing them to go through an unfair, complex, and costly process. 

Trump’s proposal of ending birth citizenship could alter what it means to be an American. The United States has always prided itself on being a nation of refuge, and birthright citizenship makes sure that children born here have the same opportunities, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. 

How It Affects Us

As a first-generation American, this issue feels deeply personal to me. My mother immigrated to the United States from Belize, sacrificing everything to provide me with a better life. The idea that someone like me, born and raised in this country, could have my citizenship questioned is unsettling. My identity, my opportunities, and my future are all tied to my citizenship. If this were gotten rid of, millions of people in similar situations would be left unsure of their legal status in the only home they’ve ever known. 

Beyond that, eliminating birthright citizenship would send a clear message to immigrant families, making them feel even more unwelcome in a country that was built on their labor and sacrifice. It would further divide us as a nation and create uncertainty for years to come. The debate over immigration policies continues but there is one thing that will always be true: Americans strength comes from its diversity and the promise that anyone born here is truly American.