Immigration Reform

About Immigration Reform

Over the past two years, the U.S. has debated immigration reform. However, Congress has failed to act in any substantive way. Congressional debates have shown that English language plays a significant part in immigration reform. The Coalition hopes that the next time Congress debates immigration reform, meaningful changes will result that help immigrants learn to read, write, and speak English, become an integral part of the American fabric, and realize the American dream.

What’s the Issue

• An estimated 11-15 million immigrants in the US cannot communicate in English.
• Of these limited English-proficient adults, only 1.5 million can access English as a Second Language services.
• Although limited English proficient adults make up 15% of all adults in need of adult education services, they comprise 46% of current adult education enrollment.
• Several groups are overrepresented among adults with below basic skills. While Hispanics only represented 12% of the National Assessment of Adult Literacy population, they represented 39% of adults at the lowest level of literacy (“Below Basic” NAAL level).

As we monitor immigration reform, we believe that:

• The ability to speak, read, and write in English is key to immigrants’ ability to achieve the American dream. Limited English-proficient adults will need to gain command of the English language in order to participate in civic life, obtain a good job, and help their children with their homework.
• The adult education and literacy system already exists and has served adult English language learners well for many years. Congress must adequately invest in the existing system to ensure that all adults waiting for services can access quality adult English language learning programs.
• Congress must ensure that teachers have access to quality, sustained professional development. Teachers of English language learners need to address specific knowledge and attitudes pertinent to culturally diverse classrooms. Some may need to integrate language and content area instruction (like teaching math to English language learners).

Next Steps

The Coalition will monitor immigration reform efforts and work to ensure that any final legislation adequately addresses the English language needs of immigrants. See the Legislative Updates to keep informed. Sign up to receive action alerts.

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