WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court has partially stayed a nationwide injunction that had prevented the Trump administration executive order on birthright citizenship from taking effect. The decision is a cause for alarm, particularly for children of immigrants across the U.S. who could face challenges to their citizenship in many states. It is important to note that the Supreme Court did not rule on the legality of birthright citizenship itself. That question is not resolved by today’s decision, and the issue will continue to be litigated in the federal courts.
The U.S. Constitution is clear on this question. The 14th Amendment guarantees that anyone born on United States soil is granted American citizenship, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. This fundamental American principle shaped us as a nation where citizenship is determined by birthplace and shared values, rather than lineage.
“Birthright citizenship is essential to the meaning of being American. This constitutional guarantee has allowed the United States to become what it is now,”said Jennie Murray, president and CEO of the National Immigration Forum. “Through our history the children of immigrants have helped drive American innovation and economic growth. Today’s ruling, although creating much uncertainty, did not end birthright citizenship and the legal fight over it continues. When the dust settles on the litigation, we hope that the courts reiterate this constitutional principle and allow those who are born in the U.S. to ultimately benefit from the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of U.S. citizenship.”