Home / Crime and Justice / Descendant of Birthright Citizen Case Fights for Rights
Descendant of Birthright Citizen Case Fights for Rights
1 Apr
Summary
- Descendant learned of ancestry at father's funeral.
- Birthright citizenship case dates back to 1898 Supreme Court decision.
- Descendants faced discrimination despite birthright citizenship.
Sandra Wong learned of her significant family history at her father's funeral in 2011. She discovered she is a descendant of Wong Kim Ark, the subject of an 1898 Supreme Court decision that affirmed birthright citizenship for those born in the United States. This ruling has become relevant again as the Supreme Court considered an executive order affecting birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.
Wong Kim Ark, born in San Francisco in 1870, fought for his right to re-enter the U.S. after visiting China. His victory established a crucial legal precedent. However, his descendants, including Wong's father, Yook Jim, faced continued discrimination and interrogation by border officials.
Despite legal citizenship, Wong's family experienced societal bias and challenges in assimilating. They navigated the complex terrain of maintaining their Chinese heritage while embracing American life, making difficult choices about which traditions to pass down. This legacy underscores that U.S. citizenship alone did not ensure complete acceptance or equal rights.
