What Does It Means To Be An American

Some see being an American as a source of pride, embodying the ideals which exemplify the best of humanity. Others believe America has not reached those ideals and must strive to improve both what America could be and what it is right now. Regardless of your philosophy or political outlook, being an American embodies certain rights and responsibilities, imparted by our system of government and the way it chooses to pursue our shared values.


Rights
U.S. citizens have rights granted by the Bill of Right (the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution). They protect the freedom to speak openly about whatever the speaker wishes, to freely print newspapers and similar journals, to practice whatever religion they see fit and to keep and bear arms. Americans are protected from unreasonable search and seizure, from self-incrimination and from being tried without due process. In addition, they can vote in federal elections, serve on a jury, allow family members to enter the United States, impart citizenship on our children if they are born outside the U.S. and travel with a U.S. passport. These rights are granted to all U.S. citizens, including those born on U.S. soil, those born outside the United States to one or more American parents, and those born outside the United States who have become Americans through naturalization.

Obligations
In exchange for these rights, Americans are expected to adhere to certain basic responsibilities. They are expected to impart the same rights to fellow Americans that they themselves enjoy. They must allow other people to speak their peace and to let others assemble and worship as they wish. They must obey all laws of the United States, including state and local laws as well as federal laws. They are expected to participate in the democratic process, both by voting and by expressing themselves in appropriate forums. They are also expected to "support and defend the Constitution" and serve the country directly in times of crisis. This last obligation can be a source of controversy, as it was during the Vietnam War when many young men were drafted to fight even though they did not believe that the war was just.