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1,500 Strong at Rally for Adult Literacy

Jun
1
1,500 Strong at Rally for Adult Literacy

On May 31, 2017, 1,500 English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students and community supporters rallied at City Hall Park in support of $12 million in funding for Adult Literacy programs in the upcoming New York City budget. Currently, 1/3 of the entire adult population of NYC, 2.2 million adult New Yorkers, lack English proficiency and/or a high school diploma. Literacy can lift these adults to new heights as higher education and career growth will be closer in reach when a person understand's English in the United States. 

Although ESOL classes can make the world of difference for these adults, ESOL programs are severely underfunded. Less than 3% of those in need can access Adult Literacy programs. Joining fellow New York City Coalition for Adult Literacy allies, 100 CPC students joined 1,500 rally participants urging the New York City Council and the Mayor's Office to restore funding for Adult Literacy programs in the coming fiscal year budget. 

 

For coverage by Sing Tao Daily click here