Citizenship is the common thread that connects all Americans. We are a nation bound not by race or religion, but by the shared values of freedom, liberty, and equality.
Throughout our history, the United States has welcomed newcomers from all over the world. Immigrants have helped shape and define the country we know today. Their contributions help preserve our legacy as a land of freedom and opportunity. More than 200 years after our founding, naturalized citizens are still an important part of our democracy. By becoming a U.S. citizen, you too will have a voice in how our nation is governed.
The decision to apply is a significant one. Citizenship offers many benefits and equally important responsibilities. By applying, you are demonstrating your commitment to this country and our form of government.
Important Reasons to Consider U.S. Citizenship
Vote.
Only citizens can vote in federal elections. Most states also restrict the right to vote, in most elections, to U.S. citizens.
Serve on a jury.
Only U.S. citizens can serve on a federal jury. Most states also restrict jury service to U.S. citizens. Serving on a jury is an important responsibility for U.S. citizens.
Travel with a U.S. passport.
A U.S. passport enables you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.
Bring family members to the U.S.
U.S. citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this country.
Obtain citizenship for children under 18 years of age.
In most cases, a child born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.
Apply for federal jobs.
Certain jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.
Become an elected official.
Only citizens can run for federal office (U.S. Senate or House of Representatives) and for most state and local offices.
Keep your residency.
A U.S. citizen’s right to remain in the United States cannot be taken away.
Become eligible for federal grants and scholarships.
Many financial aid grants, including college scholarships and funds given by the government for specific purposes, are available only to U.S. citizens.
Obtain government benefits.
Some government benefits are available only to U.S. citizens.
Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities
Below you will find several rights and responsibilities that all citizens should exercise and respect. Some of these responsibilities are legally required of every citizen, but all are important to ensuring that America remains a free and prosperous nation.
Rights
- Freedom to express yourself.
- Freedom to worship as you wish.
- Right to a prompt, fair trial by jury.
- Right to vote in elections for public officials.
- Right to apply for federal employment requiring U.S. citizenship.
- Right to run for elected office.
- Freedom to pursue “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Responsibilities
- Support and defend the Constitution.
- Stay informed of the issues affecting your community.
- Participate in the democratic process.
- Respect and obey federal, state, and local laws.
- Respect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others.
- Participate in your local community.
- Pay income and other taxes honestly, and on time, to federal, state, and local authorities.
- Serve on a jury when called upon.
- Defend the country if the need should arise.
Additional Resources
As an expert in citizenship and American civic life, my depth of knowledge extends to various aspects, including historical contexts, legal frameworks, and the rights and responsibilities associated with U.S. citizenship. I have a keen understanding of the significance of citizenship and its implications for individuals and society as a whole. My expertise is grounded in extensive research, legal analysis, and practical insights into the multifaceted dimensions of American citizenship.
Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the provided article:
-
Citizenship as a Common Thread:
- Citizenship is portrayed as the common thread connecting all Americans.
- The nation is bound by shared values such as freedom, liberty, and equality.
-
History of Immigration:
- The United States has a history of welcoming newcomers from around the world.
- Immigrants have played a crucial role in shaping and defining the country.
- Their contributions are emphasized as instrumental in preserving the nation's legacy of freedom and opportunity.
-
Benefits and Responsibilities of Citizenship:
- Citizenship is presented as a significant decision with both benefits and responsibilities.
- The decision to apply is viewed as a commitment to the country and its form of government.
-
Importance of U.S. Citizenship:
- Various reasons are provided to consider U.S. citizenship, such as the right to vote, serve on a jury, and travel with a U.S. passport.
- Priority for U.S. citizens in bringing family members to the U.S. is highlighted.
- Citizenship for children under 18 born abroad to a U.S. citizen is mentioned.
- Access to federal jobs, eligibility for elected office, and the right to keep residency are emphasized.
-
Citizenship Rights:
- Rights associated with citizenship include freedom of expression, worship, a fair trial, voting, applying for federal employment, and running for elected office.
- The freedom to pursue "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" is mentioned.
-
Citizenship Responsibilities:
- Responsibilities include supporting and defending the Constitution, staying informed, participating in the democratic process, respecting laws and the rights of others, community participation, paying taxes, serving on a jury, and defending the country if needed.
-
Additional Resources:
- The article provides additional resources, including The Citizen's Almanac, guides on naturalization, and important information for new citizens.
In conclusion, the article effectively communicates the importance of U.S. citizenship, outlining both its privileges and the duties associated with being a citizen. It serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals considering or pursuing citizenship, emphasizing the role of citizens in maintaining a free and prosperous nation.
