How A New Initiative In New York Will Help Both Veterans And Immigrants?

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 16:32:35 -0400

How A New Initiative In New York Will Help Both Veterans And Immigrants?

RP Members and Veterans what do you think of this Initiative?

http://thinkprogress.org/immigration/2015/09/24/3705025/new-york-state-veterans-immigrants-citizenship-initiative/
New York state has launched an initiative pairing two groups of people who may have difficulty integrating into American society: Military veterans and immigrants studying to become citizens.

Through a statewide effort, Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) is recruiting military veterans to teach newcomers English and to help them prepare for their citizenship exam. The initiative also aims to encourage immigrants to volunteer with veterans organizations such as the New York State Division of Veterans’ Affairs and the United States Department of Veteran Affairs hospitals to help them transition from military to civilian life.

“New York has long been a beacon to those who come to this nation to make a better lives for themselves and their families,” Governor Cuomo said in a press release. “I can think of no better way to honor and continue this rich legacy than this program, which pairs heroes who fought to preserve the American Dream with those who came to here to pursue the American Dream. Our strength is our diversity and I’m proud to help launch this new initiative for new New Yorkers.”

The program would allow veteran volunteers to help immigrants learn to use a computer or tablet device to practice English, practice English conversation, conduct mock testing sessions for immigrants hoping to take the naturalization exam, among other types of assistance. Meanwhile, veterans will be able to “use their experiences and world knowledge to connect with people and help develop diverse communities,” the press release stated.

How A New Initiative In New York Will Help Both Veterans And Immigrants

"Welcoming happens both ways."

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 26 at 2015 4:36 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 16:36:05 -0400

Well I hope the initiative is focused on pairing veterans with legal immigrants COL Mikel J. Burroughs. That could improve the relationship between both groups and help to build trust.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Sep 26 at 2015 5:07 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 26 Sep 2015 17:07:59 -0400

I don't have the ability to learn Arabic to teach Muslims English.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Sep 27 at 2015 12:08 AM

PO1 John Miller — Sun, 27 Sep 2015 00:08:22 -0400

As long as the immigrants are here legally in the first place I think this is a great idea.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Sep 27 at 2015 9:48 AM

SGT Scott Bell — Sun, 27 Sep 2015 09:48:04 -0400

thanks for sharing.

Response by MCPO Roger Collins made Sep 28 at 2015 10:36 AM

MCPO Roger Collins — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 10:36:21 -0400

Basically, anything that creates jobs for Vets, I am for. Want to bet all supervision will be done by Saandcrabs (civilians in Navy parlance). Too bad the old requirement that they have to be able to speak and read basic English is ignored now. I second the motion that it only be used for legal entrants (documented aliens).

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2015 12:46 PM

PO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 12:46:41 -0400

well... I guess it is ok ... job is job for the Vet ... i guess ...