I am writing to express my profound concern and opposition to the recent executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship for certain individuals born in the United States. This action undermines the principles of fairness, equality, and opportunity enshrined in the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution—principles that have shaped our nation for over 150 years.
The Fourteenth Amendment’s Citizenship Clause ensures that all individuals born on U.S. soil are granted citizenship, a fundamental right that cannot and should not be denied based on the immigration status of their parents. Furthermore, the Equal Protection Clause and the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment have been the cornerstones of justice in our country, ensuring that no individual is deprived of their rights or treated unequally under the law. These protections have empowered Americans to challenge discrimination and fight for civil rights, leading to landmark victories such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
It pains me to think that this executive order seeks to weaken the very Amendment that has safeguarded the rights of so many marginalized communities, including people of color, immigrants, and others who have faced systemic injustices. The 14th Amendment has long stood as a beacon of hope for those seeking fairness and equality, and dismantling its protections would turn back the clock on our progress as a nation.
This order risks creating a generation of stateless children, born in the U.S. yet denied the promise of citizenship and the opportunities that come with it. These children—through no fault of their own—would grow up without the security, identity, and protections that citizenship provides. Is this the kind of legacy we wish to leave for future generations?
I urge you to oppose this executive order in every way possible. Specifically, I ask that you:
• Publicly denounce the order as an attack on constitutional protections.
• Support or introduce legislation to reaffirm birthright citizenship and defend the Fourteenth Amendment.
• Work with your colleagues to take legal and legislative action to prevent the enforcement of this order.
As your constituent, I trust in your commitment to uphold the values that make this country a beacon of justice and opportunity. Now is the time to stand firmly against efforts that would erode our Constitution and harm the lives of countless families.
Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to hearing how you will act to defend birthright citizenship and protect the rights of all Americans.
First sent on January 27 by Elizabeth
