Section 2

 The 14 th Amendment defines a U.S. citizen. - born in the U.S. - Naturalization – for foreigners who choose to become citizens.

 You are a citizen if: - Born in one of the 50 States - Born in a US territory - Born on a US military base in a foreign country. Children born on US soil by foreign parents are citizens. - unless by foreign diplomats

 Americans may hold dual citizenship if born in another country by American parents.

 Several million aliens live in the US.  Over a half a million immigrants gain citizenship each year. 1. Foreign person signs a Declaration of Intention. 2. Person lives in US for 5 yrs. 3. Take classes 4. Application for citizenship. 5. Interview with USCIS/Take exam 6. Pledge oath if accepted

 Naturalized and native citizens keep US citizenship forever. - must volunteer to give it up. (cannot gain back automatically)

 US restricts # of immigrants per year.  About are accepted each year. Priority given to family of US citizens. Immigration Act of 1990 – priority given to “those who want to work, produce, and contribute”

 5 to 6 million illegal aliens in US How? - visit and don’t leave - risk crossing borders - stay after legal permits expire Many come for a better life and live in fear of being deported.

 Live like most Americans: - hold jobs - own property - attend public schools - pay taxes They may not: - vote or run for office - serve on juries - work in many govt. jobs.