Jennifer Lopez sparks debate with 'born in New York' claim

Jennifer Lopez ignited a social media firestorm with her assertion that true New Yorkers are exclusively those born within the city's five boroughs. During an appearance on the digital program "Subway Takes," the artist declared, "Everyone wants to claim our city, but you have to be born in New York. You have to be born in one of the five boroughs to be a New Yorker."

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Everyone wants to claim our city, but you have to be born in New York. You have to be born in one of the five boroughs to be a New Yorker.

Lopez, who herself was born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, made the statement in response to a host's anecdote about being told he could consider himself a New Yorker after a decade of residency. The singer firmly disagreed, stating, "I didn't sign that petition." When the host mentioned living and paying taxes in the city, Lopez reiterated her stance: "When you are born in New York, that's when you are really a New Yorker." She further solidified her position with the viral phrase, "I said what I said. I meant it."

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I didn't sign that petition.

The singer's remarks drew a divided reaction online. While some, like actress Kerry Washington, supported her view, many others criticized Lopez. They argued her comments contradicted the multicultural and immigrant history that defines New York City, a metropolis built over generations by people from around the globe who made it their home. The interview was part of promotions for Lopez's new Netflix romantic comedy, "Office Romance."

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When you are born in New York, that's when you are really a New Yorker.