@ Central: Genealogy Group - Denied, Then Defended: Birthright Citizenship & the Legacy of Wong Kim Ark Online
Calling all genealogy enthusiasts!
Join librarian Kate Kisselstein for a powerful and timely presentation, “Denied, Then Defended: Birthright Citizenship & the Legacy of Wong Kim Ark.”
In 1898, a young man named Wong Kim Ark took his fight for U.S. citizenship all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court—and changed the nation’s understanding of the 14th Amendment in the process. This program explores the lasting impact of his case on the concept of birthright citizenship, particularly for children born to immigrant parents during the era of Chinese exclusion.
We’ll also explore how restrictive immigration laws shaped family histories—and how understanding the context of exclusion and naturalization laws can benefit anyone researching the citizenship status of their ancestors.
Please note: Registration is required to attend.
This session will take place on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 10–11 AM Eastern, on Zoom.
Register now to receive the Zoom link and any participant handouts.