MA invests 1T4T20 million in English language training for immigrants

Original photo from Más Latino

The Healey-Driscoll administration announced a historic $1.4 billion investment to expand English language training programs in the state, specifically targeting people who do not speak English as their first language and who live in areas like Boston, where cultural diversity is key.

The announcement was made today, June 15, at the Massachusetts State House, and its objective was clear: to provide thousands of residents with the opportunity to learn English and access better jobs, decent wages, and greater stability.

State leadership in education and labor

Two key Cabinet figures participated in the press conference: Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler and Secretary of Labor Lauren Jones. Both emphasized that this effort is part of a commitment to the state's economic development and social inclusion.

“We are investing in the future of our economy by ensuring that all residents, regardless of their native language, have access to real opportunities,” Jones said.

Tutwiler added that this measure will not only strengthen the workforce but also contribute to greater equity in access to work and education.

Eastern Bank Foundation doubles its bet

The government announcement was accompanied by an additional private investment of $1.4T10 billion from the Eastern Bank Foundation, led by its president, Turahn Dorsey, who expressed his commitment to the cause to Javier Melo, a journalist from Más Latino.

“We fully trust our city's ability to teach English as a tool for accessing employment. This is a step toward equity,” Dorsey said. He added that the investment will be distributed over the next three years and will focus on vocational English programs, i.e., classes geared toward specific job fields, allowing students to practice the language in real-life work settings.

English for New Bostonians: A Clear Mission

The English for New Bostonians organization, represented at the event by its director, Claudia Green, was key in the design and implementation of these programs. Its mission: to create real opportunities for immigrants through English language proficiency, as well as to promote civic and economic literacy for a better life in Massachusetts.

Currently, English for New Bostonians operates in 24 communities, with approximately 60 to 65 active classes across the city. The courses are aimed at Latinos and people of diverse nationalities.
“Most of our students start out feeling nervous, but through the program, they gain information, confidence, and practice. We don't focus on immigration status, and classes are free or low-cost,” Green said.

With these investments, the joint goal is to teach English to between 2,000 and 5,000 people in the coming years. Authorities believe that with functional proficiency in the language, the chances of accessing well-paying jobs and covering living costs increase significantly.

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Sources:

• Mass.gov