American Birthright

Regardless of ones’ political opinions regarding our current president, his sycophantic administration, and enabling congressional minions, the desecration of our natural capital should more than trouble us all. 

The self-aggrandizement now seen in an arch, reflecting pool, ballroom, cage fight stage on the White House South Lawn, and gigantic banners trumpeting his name and colossal photograph hanging on government buildings all over Washington is and an outward and visible sign of a very mentally troubled, malignant narcissist. 

And, his racist and stereotypical views of black and brown people, immigrants, and all manner of efforts to support and advance white, Christian nationalism, billionaire white men, all the while covering up all manner of human trafficking, and emolument corruption in office is abolishing, or at least profaning, our national heritage.

My colleague and friend, John Lentz, the now retired pastor of Forest Hill Presbyterian Church in Cleveland Heights, writes a column on Substack. His latest writing is a most insightful piece illustrating what is at stake should the present course being charted by our racist national leaders continue unchecked.

With John’s permission I share his column with you.

Living the Questions

Birthright World Cup Glory

John Lentz

June 14

In the early summer of 2001, Florence Balogun and her husband Ben, both Nigerian citizens, were preparing to fly from New York City back to their home in London. Because Florence was seven months pregnant, the airline would not allow her to board. She remained in Brooklyn, where she gave birth to Folarin on July 3. Since he was born in the United States, he acquired U.S. citizenship through birthright citizenship.

As many World Cup fans now know, Folarin Balogun plays for the United States Men’s National Team. He scored two impressive goals in the team’s 4–1 opening win over Paraguay.

Folarin, according to reports could have played for the Nigerian (parents) and British (his home) teams. He chose US, the U.S.of A. How fortunate it is that this brilliant player is wearing the Red, White and Blue.

Not by “blood and soil,” not by race, creed or color, not by generational longevity does one “earn” citizenship. Being born within the boundaries of the country is enough. Birthright citizenship is granted pretty much throughout North and Latin America and the Caribbean.

I think this is a wonderful reality! Welcome one and welcome all! We need more babies!

Yes, the so-called tourist births, where a pregnant woman comes to the US only to deliver her baby so that it will have all the rights and privileges of citizenship, may present a twist on the original intent. However, the exact number of babies born in the US to non-citizen mothers is unknown. It is less than 1% of births in a year. If Congress wants to write a law limiting visas to pregnant women from countries who are only flying in to give birth in the US, well, then that is its prerogative. But… we should not tamper with the US constitution on this one.

As President Trump continues his quest to limit legal immigration and asylum, kick out DACA kids (brought to the US as a child, knowing no other country) and those with temporary protective status (e.g. Haitians), call many developing nations “shithole countries,” invite only white South Africans to migrate, and press the Supreme Court to end birthright citizenship, we have all the more reason to celebrate and support Folarin!

Folarin, – contrary to this racist, narrow-minded narcissist in the White House and his sycophantic minions, – we will celebrate your being one of us. Let Trump have his MMA rumble (UFC Freedom 250) on the lawn …. I will welcome the nations, become part of the Tartan Army for Scotland games, and in awe watch the talent of so many gifted athletes from all over the world!

To my fellow citizen Folarin Balogun and to all the US Men’s Team …. SCORE MORE GOALS!!!!

PS – I head to Dallas on Tuesday to see England v. Croatia. Can’t wait.