Birthright Citizenship: Celebrating First-Generation American Stories

Entertainment: “Stories Across Screens”

​From small stages to Hollywood’s biggest night, Rami Malek’s journey reflects the promise of birthright citizenship in America.  The son of Egyptian immigrants, he became the first actor of Arab heritage to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, proving that representation on screen can reshape culture.

Born in Los Angeles in 1981 to parents who immigrated from Cairo, Malek grew up in a household deeply tied to Egyptian traditions.  Arabic was spoken at home, and his parents emphasized education, discipline, and hard work.  His upbringing straddled two worlds—his family’s heritage and the opportunities of his American environment.

After graduating from the University of Evansville with a degree in theater, Malek began his acting career with small television roles.  His breakthrough came in 2015 with the acclaimed series Mr. Robot, where his portrayal of Elliot Alderson earned him critical recognition, including an Emmy Award.
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But it was his role as Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) that made history.  His transformative performance won him the Academy Award for Best Actor, Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild Award, and BAFTA, making him one of the most celebrated actors of his generation.

“I am the son of immigrants from Egypt. I am a first-generation American.  And part of my story is being written right now.” – Rami Malek

Malek has used his platform to advocate for diversity in Hollywood, pushing for authentic representation of underrepresented communities.  His success underscores the profound contributions of first-generation Americans, who embody both the legacy of their parents’ journeys and the promise of new paths forward.

Did You Know?
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• Nearly 1 in 4 children in the U.S. has at least one immigrant parent.
• Under the 14th Amendment, anyone born in the United States is automatically a U.S. citizen, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
• First-generation Americans like Rami Malek are shaping culture, science, business, and politics—strengthening the fabric of America.