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By Alma Tidwell – January 25, 2025

What’s Happening to Birthright Citizenship in 2025?

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order attempting to redefine what it means to be a U.S. citizen. His new policy says that children born in the U.S. are not automatically citizens unless at least one parent is either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.

This challenges the long-standing interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which for over 150 years has granted citizenship to nearly everyone born on U.S. soil. This change could have huge implications for our country—legally, socially, and morally.

This order hasn’t taken effect yet. A federal judge blocked it on January 23, 2025, saying it’s likely unconstitutional. But the fight isn’t over—it’s moving through the courts and could end up at the Supreme Court.

What’s the Debate About?

This issue has Americans deeply divided. Let’s look at both sides:

Why Some Support the Change:

1. Immigration Reform: Some believe that birthright citizenship encourages unauthorized immigration and “birth tourism,” where people come to the U.S. just to have children who automatically become citizens.

2. Global Norms: Many countries, including Germany and Japan, don’t have unconditional birthright citizenship. Supporters argue the U.S. should follow suit.

3. Clarifying the Constitution: Advocates for the change argue that the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” in the 14th Amendment doesn’t apply to people who are in the U.S. unlawfully.

Why Others Oppose the Change

1. It Violates the 14th Amendment: Opponents argue that this executive order goes directly against the Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born here.

2. It Harms Families: Denying citizenship to U.S.-born kids could make them stateless, leaving them without any legal protections or rights.

3. Unintended Consequences: Critics fear this will increase inequality, harm children, and lead to logistical chaos in determining citizenship.

What This Means for America

If the courts uphold this executive order, it could change how citizenship works in the U.S. for the first time in history. It would also create new challenges:

• Legal Confusion: How will hospitals, schools, and government agencies verify citizenship at birth?

• Social Division: This policy could widen divides between citizens and immigrants, fostering fear and mistrust.

• Impact on Families: Many families with mixed immigration statuses could face more stress and uncertainty.

What’s Happened So Far?

Here’s a quick timeline:

January 20, 2025:
President Trump signed the executive order.

January 23, 2025:
A federal judge issued a temporary block, saying the order likely violates the Constitution.

The next step is for higher courts to weigh in. The fight may go all the way to the Supreme Court.

What Can We Do?

This is a moment for action—peaceful, meaningful action. Here’s how you can make a difference:

1. Educate Yourself and Others

Knowledge is power. Share what’s happening with friends and family. Encourage them to look into the 14th Amendment and the potential consequences of this executive order.

2. Speak to Your Representatives

Your voice matters. Contact your senators and representatives to let them know where you stand. Be respectful, clear, and concise. You can find their contact info at house.gov or senate.gov.

3. Peacefully Protest

Join others in expressing your views.

A peaceful protest is happening at 3 PM tomorrow, January 26, 2025, at the Texas Capitol in Austin.

Bring signs, stay peaceful, and make your voice heard.

Know Your Protest Rights in Texas:

• You have the right to protest peacefully in public spaces like parks, streets, and sidewalks.

• Police can’t stop you unless you’re breaking the law or creating a safety hazard.

• If you’re asked to leave a private property, comply or risk being charged with trespassing.

For more on your rights, check out the ACLU’s guide to protesting.

4. Support Advocacy Groups

Organizations like the ACLU and National Immigration Law Center are fighting this battle in court. Consider donating, volunteering, or spreading the word about their work.

5. Vote and Stay Involved

This fight isn’t just about one executive order—it’s about the values we want to uphold as a nation. Stay engaged, vote in every election, and encourage others to do the same.

What’s Next?

Here’s what to watch for in the coming weeks:

• Court Decisions: The legal system will decide whether this executive order stands or falls.

• Public Response: The way Americans respond—through protests, calls to Congress, and public discussions—will shape the outcome.

No matter what happens, this moment is a reminder of how important it is to stay informed, compassionate, and active.

A Final Word

This isn’t just about laws or politics—it’s about people. It’s about the kids who could grow up without the same rights as their peers. It’s about the families who might feel more fear than love in the place they call home.

No matter which side of the debate you’re on, let’s approach this issue with empathy. We can stand up for what we believe in without tearing others down.

See you at the protest tomorrow at 3 PM if you can make it. Let’s make a difference, together.

With love,

Alma

Spread the word by sharing this post on Facebook, Twitter, or wherever you connect with your community. Use hashtags like #BirthrightCitizenship, #14thAmendment, and #PeacefulProtest to join the conversation.