Denying citizenship to a U.S.-born child is unconstitutional, reckless, and contrary to our American values

WASHINGTON-On the first day of his second administration, Donald Trump issued an executive order seeking to strip the constitutional guarantee of citizenship from children born in the United States, defying the Constitution, more than a century of Supreme Court precedent, and longstanding federal law. Earlier this year, the National Education Association, on behalf of its 3 million members, joined a coalition of labor unions in filing an amicus briefwith the Supreme Court, outlining the harm ending birthright citizenship would cause to students and educators nationwide.

The following statement can be attributed to NEA President Becky Pringle:

"For generations, birthright citizenship has embodied the promise at the heart of America: that every child born here can grow, contribute, and pursue their dreams without limitation. Donald Trump's executive order undermines that promise by casting doubt on the belonging of children whose only home is the United States, simply because their parents lack permanent immigration status.

"Denying citizenship to a U.S.-born child is not only unconstitutional but reckless and contrary to our nation's values. Trump's ill-conceived executive order would create a permanent underclass of people who have always called this country home, yet may be left without one. Rather than narrowing who counts as American, we should strengthen the ideals that unite us by ensuring every child born here is recognized, valued, and able to claim their place in our nation's future.

"Educators have a moral responsibility to confront this attack on our students and values. We cannot allow this administration to undermine constitutional rights or strip away fundamental freedoms. The Supreme Court must reject this unconstitutional executive order. As this administration continues its attacks against our communities, we will continue to organize and stand together to protect our students, our families, and our communities."