The United States of America has prided itself on providing and offering The American Dream, unlike any country in the world. The United States has also been coined as The Melting Pot of the World.

Considering these two aspects of the country, a language barrier is the only thing can hold an American immigrant back from achieving their aspirations.

The Problem: Some argue that English language immersion is the best approach to educate immigrant students whereas others point out that dual language educational programs develop students whose academic achievement tends to be greater than that of immigrants pushed into English immersion.

Consequently, breaking the language barrier also creates positive benefits in three more ways: politically, economically, and socially.

Political – Increasing immigrant literacy increases voting pool

Economic – Greater for potential for employment and higher valued work

Social – Furthers cohesiveness for all members of all communities

San Francisco

San Francisco, as a sanctuary city, continuously receives a large number of immigrants from all over the world with a significant portion coming from Asia and Latin America.

The public educational system in San Francisco has not fully addressed the challenge of English language education for non-native English speakers which has led to grassroots organizations having to assist with the problem. As a result, until legislation is passed, grassroots organizations may be only the solution.