Throughline By Accident of Birth
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Jun 9, 2022 Julie Su, an attorney and fourth-generation San Franciscan, and Carol Nackenoff, a Richter Professor Emerita, dive deep into the compelling story of Wong Kim Ark. They discuss his tumultuous return from China in 1895, where he was unjustly denied entry despite being born in the U.S. The conversation reveals the historical struggle against the Chinese Exclusion Act and the pivotal Supreme Court case that followed. Together, they reflect on the ongoing debates surrounding birthright citizenship and the profound implications for American identity and civil rights.
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Sandra Wong's Discovery
- Sandra Wong discovered her familial connection to Wong Kim Ark at her father's funeral.
- She pieced together his story through archival research, including court transcripts and photographs.
The Weight of Silence
- Wong Kim Ark's story highlights the pain and shame associated with discriminatory experiences.
- This often leads to family secrets and silences across generations.
Wong Kim Ark's Detainment
- Wong Kim Ark, a Chinese-American cook born in San Francisco, returned from China in 1895.
- Upon arrival, he was denied entry despite being a citizen under the Chinese Exclusion Act.
