As an organization dedicated to exploring the meaning of citizenship in all its forms, NCoC is often asked “what does really it mean to be American?”

Our work tells its more than just birthright or naturalization status, more than an idea or principle, more than a single behavior or attitude. Being American is a way of life that has as many potential iterations and definitions as the number of people who reside on our soil.

That’s why NCoC is launching “The Meaning of American” discussion series—to collect personal stories, definitions, and experiences of the rights and responsibilities of living in the United States.

We’ll highlight featured discussions from our commentators on this topic on an ongoing basis, so check out the discussions below (listed chronologically by publication date) and check back for more. Have something you’d like to submit for publication consideration? Email us.