What is one promise you make when you become a United States citizen?

One of the key promises made when becoming a United States citizen is to obey the laws of the United States. This commitment is fundamental to the role of citizenship, reflecting the expectation that individuals will adhere to the legal frameworks and regulations that govern society. By obeying the laws, citizens contribute to the maintenance of order, safety, and the overall functioning of the democratic system.

This obligation encompasses a broad spectrum of laws, from local ordinances to federal regulations, ensuring that citizens play their part in the collective responsibility of the nation. It is essential for safeguarding the rights and freedoms that citizens enjoy, as well as for promoting a sense of community and shared values among the diverse population of the United States.

While paying taxes and upholding the Constitution are also important responsibilities that citizens take on, the promise to obey laws is a fundamental aspect of ensuring a stable and just society. Voting in elections is a civic duty and a right of citizens, but it is not universally mandated for all citizens, making it less of a definitive promise of citizenship compared to the obligation to obey laws.