What does it mean to be an American? This question has countless answers, reflecting the diverse experiences and perspectives that make up our nation. After delving into historical texts and considering the evolving narrative of American identity, I have come to an understanding that resonates deeply within me. At its core, being an American embodies the belief that every individual should have the opportunity to forge their own path, propelled by hard work, diligence, and intellect. In America, we are free from the dictates of monarchs, noblemen, and tycoons; we collectively choose our leaders and recognize the rights of our fellow citizens, even amidst disagreement.

Yet, a contrasting narrative is emerging—one that raises serious questions about the accessibility and integrity of American citizenship. Recent proposals, such as Donald Trump’s $5 million “gold card” visa aimed at wealthy immigrants, signal a readiness to commodify citizenship. “If we sell a million, that’s $5 trillion,” Trump claimed during his first Cabinet meeting of his second term. His rhetoric indicates a startling willingness to transform the pillars of our democracy into a marketplace, where citizenship becomes the privilege of those who can pay.

The concept itself is not entirely new. The United States already offers investor visas under the EB-5 program, which requires foreign nationals to invest approximately $1 million in American job-creating ventures. This existing program includes strict verification processes, ensuring that investment funds are legally acquired and tied to tangible economic contributions. In stark contrast, Trump’s “gold card” visa proposal suggests a far more transactional approach, one that steers clear of accountability and ethical considerations.

Moreover, the implications of such a policy are troubling. What does it mean to welcome individuals who may have amassed their fortunes through questionable means, as suggested by Trump’s nonchalance toward the origins of wealth? His potential willingness to sell citizenship to Russian oligarchs, Chinese nationals, or others raises immediate concerns about the integrity of our citizenship process and the moral fabric of our society. Should we really be laying out a welcome mat for those who have gained their riches through unscrupulous activities?

Progress toward the American dream has never been uniform; history tells us that barriers to entry exist, often insurmountably. Yet, amidst the struggles, it has been the resolve and resilience of individuals that accompany the human experience in this country. Many Americans have overcome systemic disadvantages through sheer determination, and their stories are woven into the very fabric of our national identity. It is this spirit of striving to achieve against the odds that truly embodies what it means to be an American.

The commodification of citizenship would create a bifurcated society where success is measured not by merit but by wealth. I personally do not wish to surrender my autonomy and hard work to serve those who have not earned their place through effort and dedication. There is something fundamentally disheartening about envisioning a future where the rich and powerful exert even greater control in a society that boasts of equality and opportunity.

While the implications of a “gold card” visa become clearer, we must question the values it represents. Rather than selling access to the American dream, we should emphasize the principles that have historically defined it: hard work, merit, and a commitment to shared values. The conversation about immigration and citizenship should not revolve around wealth but rather around community building and the collective betterment of our society.

As public discourse evolves, so must our conception of what it means to be an American. We have a unique opportunity to redefine this narrative, ensuring it remains inclusive and representative of our highest ideals. However, if the voices pushing for the commodification of citizenship prevail, we may find ourselves in a scenario where the founding principles of our democracy are traded for monetary gain.