Barahona

Dominican students

Dominicans argue over a court ruling that strips citizenship from many born in the country

Global Politics

In September of 2013, a high court in the Dominican Republic ruled that Dominicans with an immigrant ancestor who came without legal papers are no longer automatically citizens — even if they were born in the country. It’s a controversial decision that is creating arguments in the country and outside.

Betzeida Perez Pierre was born in the Dominican Republic, as were her parents and their parents. Now she can't attend university because her Dominican citizenship has been canceled.

What happens when your government tells you you’re no longer a citizen?

Conflict & Justice