B Y C H O I C E O R B Y C H A N C E : THE SIGNIFICANCE OF U. S . CITIZENSHIP
Have you recently become a citizen, or, conveniently, been one since birth? Congratulations! An American citizen, whether naturalized or natural born, has many opportunities, privileges and rights guaranteed by the Constitution and the laws governing the country:
Right to vote in elections
Freedom of expression
Freedom to worship
Right to a fair trial by jury
Freedom to enjoy “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”
In addition to rights and benefits, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services emphasizes the responsibilities we have as citizens:
Support and defend the Constitution
Stay informed of the issues affecting your community
Participate in the democratic process
Respect and obey federal, state & local laws
Respect the rights, beliefs & opinions of others
Participate in your local community
Pay income/other taxes honestly & on time
Serve on a jury when called upon
Defend the country if the need should arise
Think it Through 1. What rights do you think are most important? 2. Are there other rights that should be guaranteed to citizens?
3. Should all citizens have the same rights? If yes, why? If no, why not? 4. What actions do you take to be a responsible citizen of the United States?
AMER I CA’ S LEGACY PRESENTED BY STUDENT GOVERNMENTAL AFFA I RS PROGRAM | 7 www.alllaw.com/articles/nolo/us-immigration/permanent-resident-vs-citizen-difference.htm; www.constitution.org/powright.htm; www.immigration.about.com/od/uscitizenship/a/Citizenship_Rights_Responsibilities. htm; www.uscis.gov; www.ushistory.org/gov/10d.asp STUDENT GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS PROGRAM | SGAP.org |
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