Post Reports The little-known history of birthright citizenship
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May 14, 2025 
David Nakamura, an immigration reporter for The Washington Post, shares the inspiring story of Norman Wong, who fights for birthright citizenship and honors his great-grandfather, Wong Kim Ark. They discuss the landmark Supreme Court case affirming citizenship for those born on U.S. soil and the historical significance of this ruling amid anti-immigrant sentiments. The conversation also addresses recent political challenges to birthright citizenship and the personal implications these policies have on families today.
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Norman Wong's Family Discovery
- Norman Wong didn't know about his great-grandfather Wong Kim Ark until his 50s.
- He learned the family history from Chinese newspapers around the 100th anniversary of the Supreme Court decision.
Wong Kim Ark's Reentry Fight
- Wong Kim Ark was born in the U.S. to Chinese immigrant parents and became a cook.
- He was denied reentry to the U.S. in 1895, held on a ship while fighting in court.
Community Backs Wong Kim Ark
- The Chinese American community supported Wong Kim Ark's legal battle.
- They raised money and hired prominent lawyers to defend his birthright citizenship.