On February 4th, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem froze United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) funding for nonprofit organizations providing citizenship education. No warning. No explanation. No timeline. Just a sudden loss of support for programming that helps lawful permanent residents navigate the path to U.S. citizenship.
The English Skills Learning Center has been receiving USCIS funding since 2009 and has served nearly 2,500 individuals since the beginning of the program in 2007. With this funding we provide free civics education for English language learners and subcontract with a community partner who provides legal assistance throughout the naturalization process.
This freeze puts the ESLC's Citizenship Program at risk. We had to act fast to avoid furloughs and keep classes running.
What This Means for Our Program
With no word on when (or if) this funding will be restored, we’ve made temporary adjustments to staffing and shifted resources. This was the only way to keep our team intact and classes running for now. But let’s be clear, these fixes are temporary. If the freeze continues, it will mean staff furloughs and fewer opportunities for learners to access services.
Why This Matters
Our citizenship classes change lives. Becoming a U.S. citizen means security, opportunity, and a true sense of belonging. It allows people to vote, build stable careers, reunite with family, and fully participate in their communities without fear of being deported. For many, it’s the fulfillment of years, sometimes decades, of hard work and perseverance.
Just ask Sophia, one of the learners who recently passed her citizenship exam. She worked hard, showed up to class, and made her dream a reality. She is pictured below at her naturalization ceremony. Her smiles says it all! Communities are stronger when they are successfully integrated.
This is what’s at stake. Every day, students are working toward a future where they can fully participate in their communities, and citizenship is a significant step in that journey. Without funding, these opportunities disappear.
Where We Go from Here
Right now, we’re stuck waiting. It’s been weeks, and we haven't had any updates on when this freeze might be lifted. That uncertainty makes it impossible to plan ahead. We are monitoring the situation closely, seeking answers, and adapting as needed.
Here’s how you can help:
Stay informed. We’ll share updates as we can.
Spread the word. Let others know what’s happening.
Support our work. Donations help us keep classes running during unpredictable times.
We’re not giving up. Our students are attending classes, putting in the work, and proving just how much this program matters. We’re going to keep showing up for them because everyone deserves a country to call "home."
Join the ESLC to help strengthen your local community!
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