"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 amendment was passed after the Civil War in light of the South's tendency to deprive slaves basic citizenship rights. For over 100 years since the passage of this amendment babies born in the United States have been granted US citizenship.
More recently, however, there are calls from some politicians to change what they call the "anchor baby" loophole. Proponents of this change argue that a large number of illegal immigrants take advantage of the 14th amendment by sneaking over the border, giving birth, and then reaping the benefits of citizenship for their family because the child born here is a US citizen.
Arguments in favor of birthright citizenship.
Arguments in favor of ending birthright citizenship.
Here is your task:
- Does the original intent to the authors of the 14th amendment matter? Did they really think their amendment would apply to so-called "anchor babies?" Does it?
- Should the 14th amendment be amended to prevent babies of illegal immigrants from being granted citizenship rights by birth?
- Should citizenship be based on where you are born or what the citizenship rights of your parents are?
Definition of jus sanguinis
Please use good judgment in your responses.
