1. Citizenship in the United States

2. You are legally an American citizen if :
You were born in the U.S. or its territories. This is true even if your parents were not citizens at the time, unless they were living in the U.S. as representatives of a foreign gov’t

3. You are legally an American citizen if :
At least one of your parents was a U.S. citizen when you were born
You have been naturalized
You were under age eighteen when your parents were naturalized

4. The Naturalization Process
Fill out & submit application/biographi-cal info, & fingerprints
You must prove:
You are at least 18 years old
You have lived in US at least 5 years (3 years if married during that time to a US citizen) & in your state for 6 mo

5. The Naturalization Process
Your character & behavior reflect accepted moral standards
You are loyal to the basic values of US gov’t & have not supported any group seeking overthrow
You can read, write, speak English & know history, and form of gov’t

6. The Naturalization Process
Final Hearing: after INS investigation, you will be asked to take oath of loyalty in court and be given certificate of citizenship.
Green Card: Is different because it grants permanent residence, most rights, but no political rights.

7. Rights of citizens: Vote and hold elected office
Say what you think in speech or in writing
Practice your own religion (or none)

8. Rights of citizens: Fair trial Protected by your gov’t when abroad
Privacy in your home & personal life

9. Duties of citizens: Obey the laws Defend the nation Serve on juries
Serve as witness in trials
Pay taxes
Attend school

10. Responsibilities of citizens:
Contribute to the ‘common good’ : acting in ways that protect the rights and freedoms of other Americans, making this a better place to live

11. Responsibilities of citizens:
Voting
Hold public office
Help with election campaigns
Influence government (petition)
Serve community