Judy Chu: “I stand in strong support of this amendment, which strikes language prohibiting direct appropriations funding for…”

“I stand in strong support of this amendment, which strikes language prohibiting direct appropriations funding for immigration integration grants. Integrating immigrants into our society makes us a stronger Nation and a more united Nation. Having Federal policies in place to quickly integrate new citizens into our national fabric is and should remain an important priority for our government. This should not be a solely Republican or Democratic priority. This is not a partisan issue. In fact, it has had strong support from leaders on both sides of the aisle. President George Bush created the Office of Citizenship during his Presidency because he recognized the importance of helping new citizens embrace their new home. The Office of Citizenship plays a key role in immigration integration by leading initiatives to promote citizenship awareness; providing grants to national and community-based organizations that prepare immigrants for citizenship; preparing educational materials for citizens and trying to expand integration and citizenship resources in communities. And President Obama has picked up the torch from his predecessor, committing direct appropriations to an integration grant program that helps green card holders, who are all legal immigrants, get ready to become active participants in our democracy. These grants help legal residents navigate through the naturalization process, teach them about our Nation's history and government, and teach them English.…”