Immigrant communities demonstrate high levels of enthusiasm for learning English and participating in the democratic process. However, immigrant enthusiasm for participation is not matched by federal investment in programs that assist with the process of integrating into American life. Currently, there is no federal commitment, outside of the Adult Education Act, to ensure that all who desire to learn English have access to appropriate programs. Further, community based groups providing the front lines of English language classes must generally assemble programs by piecing together volunteer labor and facilities.
Many immigrants aspire to U.S. citizenship.
Unfortunately, the lack of availability of the English and civics instruction necessary for passing the U.S. citizenship exam is preventing countless individuals from realizing their dreams of full participation and representation in American life as U.S. citizens. Investing in English and civics instruction for our nation's new Americans would go a long way toward meeting the extraordinary demand in immigrant communities as well as demonstrating to both immigrants and the larger American society your resolve to fully integrate America's newcomers. English proficiency is key to economic mobility in the United States and your commitment to this effort will send a clear message to millions of immigrants and their families, who constitute a significant portion of our nation's taxpayers, workers, citizens, and voters, that you are committed to investing in their education and efforts to become successful American citizens. Thank you for attention to this vital issue for America's future.