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).

The National Coalition for Literacy supports immigration reform and integration initiatives that:

• Create opportunities for immigrants to learn English and civics by building and enhancing the capacity of current Adult Education and Family Literacy systems and programs.
• Do not create duplicate or redundant systems that provide funds and resources to those wishing to learn English.
• Increase funds for programs that serve adult English language learners and their families through the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.
• Ensure that a broad range of English Language Learners across all skill levels have access to instructional services.
• Provide additional funds and resources for the professional development of educators working with adult English language learners.
• Provide tax credits for adult ESL and literacy educators.
• Provide tax credits for employers who provide support for their employees in need of English language learning.
• Foster collaboration between stakeholder agencies that work with adult English language learners, including government, public, and non-profit organizations.
• Promote respect and appreciation for the contributions made by all immigrants and those who work with them.

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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