Citizenship has been a fundamental issue in Black history, marked by struggles for equal rights and recognition in various societies.

In the United States, the struggle for citizenship for Black people began during the period of slavery when they were legally considered property rather than citizens. The abolition of slavery with the 13th Amendment in 1865 granted freedom, but citizenship rights remained limited for Black Americans. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s was a pivotal moment in the fight for full citizenship rights, leading to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Throughout history, Black activists and leaders have fought for equal citizenship rights, including the right to vote, access to education, employment opportunities, and equal treatment under the law. The struggle for citizenship continues today, with ongoing efforts to address systemic racism and ensure that all Black individuals are treated as full and equal citizens in society.