Citizenship in America Responsibility to be Involved

Who is a Citizen? Someone who was born in the United States or its territories. (This is true even if his or her parents are not US citizens, unless they were in this country as foreign dignitaries.) Someone who has at least one parent that was a US citizen when s/he was born. Someone who has been NATURALIZED (has gone through the process of becoming a citizen). Someone who was under 18 when his/her parents were naturalized.

An ALIEN is someone who lives in the U.S., but is not a citizen. Aliens have the same rights as Americans, except they cannot vote or hold public office. Arnold was naturalized!!!!!!

Naturalization Process Application: submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the USCIS (formerly the INS). Examination: You must be 18, lived in the US for 5 years, and in the state of testing for 3 months. No criminal record. Pledge loyalty to the principles of the US Constitution. Be able to read, write, and speak English. Have knowledge of the history and government of the United States.

The Office of Citizen  The government of the US is “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”  The power of the US government is based on the consent of the governed, so it is in the hands of the people.

 By exercising your right to vote, you are making a statement to the government that this particular candidate represents your ideas on how the US should operate and conduct itself on issue that are domestic (at home) and foreign (around the world).

 When you vote, you are electing representatives to make decisions for you on issues in the government. You are lending them your power. Therefore you hold the “Office of Citizen”!  You can take that power away by voting against them in the next election, or recalling them

Rights of a Citizen The right to vote and hold elected office The right to speak your mind The right to a fair trial The right to be protected by your government while abroad

Responsibilities of a Citizen Obey the laws Defend the nation Serve on a jury or as a witness Pay taxes Attend school Contribute to the common good Hold government office Influence the government Serve the community

What are the Five Themes of Citizenship? 1.Honesty 2.Compassion 3.Respect 4.Responsibility 5.Courage If you consistently follow these themes, or guidelines, than you are a good citizen! Remember, good citizenship starts with you!