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American Citizenship Day

A heritage observance on March 2 commemorating the granting of U.S. citizenship to residents of Puerto Rico via the Jones-Shafroth Act of 1917.

Tuesday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 2

OBSERVED INPuerto Rico

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

ORIGIN

Legislative Resolution

FOUNDING ENTITY

Puerto Rico Legislative Assembly

FIRST OBSERVED

1977

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The Puerto Rico Legislative Assembly established the observance via Law No. 5 of April 4, 1977, later reaffirmed by Law No. 53 of March 4, 2000. It commemorates March 2, 1917, when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Jones-Shafroth Act granting statutory U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans.

Legislative Recordvia law.justia.com

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Happy American Citizenship Day on March 2! This day commemorates the signing of the first United States Naturalization law in 1790, which granted citizenship to foreign-born individuals. It's a day to celebrate the diversity and unity of our nation, as well as recognize the rights and responsibilities that come with being a citizen. From participating in civic duties to embracing cultural traditions, there are endless ways to honor this special day. So let's come together and proudly celebrate what it means to be an American citizen!

TIMELINE

American Citizenship Day Timeline

First Naturalization Act

The first Naturalization Act was passed by the U.S Congress establishing a process by which immigrants could become U.S. citizens.

14th Amendment Ratified

The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, granting citizenship to "all persons born or naturalized in the United States."

Immigration and Nationality Act

This act, also known as the McCarran-Walter Act, codified and organized all immigration law in the United States into one comprehensive statute.

Change of Date

The holiday, originally celebrated on May 21, was moved to September 17 to coincide with the adoption date of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.

Name Change to Citizenship Day

The holiday, previously known as "Constitution Day," was renamed "Constitution Day and Citizenship Day" to recognize all U.S. citizens.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate American Citizenship Day

Attend a naturalization ceremony

Celebrate the new citizens of the United States by attending a naturalization ceremony. It's a beautiful and emotional experience that will remind you of the importance and value of American citizenship.

HOST

Host a themed party

Gather your friends and family for a themed party that celebrates American culture and history. You can serve traditional American foods, play patriotic games, and have fun with red, white, and blue decorations.

TAKE

Take a trip to a historic site

Spend the day learning about American history by visiting a national monument or historic site. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the country and its citizens.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a citizenship program

Give back to your community by volunteering at a citizenship program. You can help new immigrants prepare for their citizenship test and support them as they become citizens.

LEARN

Learn about your family's immigration story

Use this day to learn more about your family's immigration story. Talk to your relatives, research your ancestry, and reflect on the sacrifices and struggles that your ancestors went through to become American citizens.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why American Citizenship Day is Important

It promotes community and civic engagement

American Citizenship Day encourages citizens to actively participate in their communities and contribute to society through volunteering, voting, and other forms of civic engagement. It emphasizes the importance of being an involved member of society for the betterment of the nation.

It celebrates the diverse history and culture of America

American Citizenship Day is a time to honor and celebrate the millions of individuals from all over the world who have become citizens of the United States. It reminds us that America was built on diversity and the contributions of immigrants.

It highlights the rights and responsibilities of citizenship

On American Citizenship Day, we are reminded of the privileges and duties that come with being a citizen. By taking an oath, individuals pledge their allegiance to uphold the values and laws of the country, making it a day to reflect on what it means to be an American.

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