What is birthright citizenship reddit?

Birthright citizenship, often debated on Reddit, is primarily discussed in relation to the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. This amendment includes a citizenship clause, which states that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to its jurisdiction are citizens thereof. This is the foundation of birthright citizenship, also known as jus soli ("right of the soil").

On Reddit, discussions often revolve around the interpretation of "subject to its jurisdiction." Some argue this implies full allegiance and not simply physical presence, while others maintain it encompasses nearly anyone born within US borders. The debate frequently involves considerations of immigration policy and its impact on the country's resources and social fabric.

Common arguments against unrestricted birthright citizenship often cite fiscal burden and potential abuse of the system, where individuals intentionally give birth in the US to gain citizenship for their child and, potentially, future relatives.

Conversely, proponents highlight the constitutional principle and argue that restricting birthright citizenship would require a constitutional amendment, a difficult and contentious process. They also point to the historical context of the 14th Amendment, which was originally intended to protect the citizenship rights of formerly enslaved people.

The economic impacts, social integration of birthright citizens, and ethical considerations related to human rights are also frequent topics of discussion on Reddit forums dedicated to politics, law, and current events.