07.25.2011

The Hispanic Immigrant

The Hispanic immigrant population in Nashville grew by 78 percent from 2000 to 2007, and faces many of the challenges seen throughout the country. In this emerging immigrant gateway city, which first saw a large immigrant influx as part of the 1960s refugee resettlement programs, immigrants face language barriers and difficulties in accessing day-to-day information on topics ranging from healthcare services to housing and education. Presently, Middle Tennesseeranks 5th in the nation as an area with the most foreign-born residents.
 
As CWJC of Middle Tennessee conducted a needs assessment, we found the need for ESL, and that is what we started with at the Williamson County site. These ESL classes began with only 17 students, and have grown to serve over 60 students annually. Thirty or more students have graduated with the ability to speak English since we began our classes 4 years ago.

There can be some controversy that surrounds supporting and helping the Hispanic population. At CWJC of Middle Tennessee, our policy is to serve the undocumented citizen; however, we will not assist them in any way that would be considered illegal. Currently our US laws state that it is illegal to harbor or hire an undocumented citizen. Therefore, at CWJC we assist undocumented citizens with ESL classes, emergency or healthcare needs and obtaining their citizenship. We do not teach undocumented citizens jobs skills or assist them in obtaining employment.

It is clear in scripture that God wants us to serve these individuals. Not everyone will be called to serve undocumented citizens living among us, but we know God is calling forth His people to serve them. If you sense this call, we ask you to join us in ministry through conversational English classes and mentoring.