Braver Angels Debate: Birthright Citizenship

Debate with Braver Angels! The subject of the debate this time is birthright citizenship.

President Trump – in his second term – has proposed an end to birthright citizenship, which grants automatic American citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States.” This right of citizenship was added to the Constitution by the Fourteenth Amendment, which was ratified after the Civil War in 1868. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the language of the amendment includes all “persons”, regardless of race, religion, or national origin.

Some people think that birthright citizenship is fundamental to American identity and character, while others feel it should be limited or eliminated altogether. What impact would ending birthright citizenship have on America’s immigration policy? This resolution launches a debate about the impact of altering immigration policy. Should we restrict the number of foreigners we welcome into our society? Would it ease the economic burden of absorbing large numbers of immigrants, or make it easier for Americans to find employment? Would it interfere with economic growth? Is it inconsistent with our history as a nation of immigrants? Come to the debate on March 3 and share your thoughts and concerns.

Residents are invited to attend and participate in the debate. Braver Angels debates encourage listening and active conversation. They are moderated to ensure that conversation remains civil and that both sides of the question are heard. The resolution is offered as a starting place for conversation, and does not reflect the views of the Mahomet Public Library. The Library hosts these debates to promote friendly and productive discussion of the difficult issues facing our society.

For adults. No registration required.