In the middle of Northeast Philadelphia’s Mayfair neighborhood, the Rodriguez family retains their Colombian heritage by speaking Spanish in the house, listening to Colombian music and cooking traditional Latin American foods like arepas, sancocho soup [continue reading…]
Viral incidents of people berating others for not speaking English have gripped the internet. In one case, a New Jersey teacher insisted students “speak American.” In another, a New York lawyer threatened to call Immigration [continue reading…]
In Saida Harpi’s English language classroom, immigrants from any country are welcome. The blanket offering means the students in Harpi and her coworkers’ classes often come from a variety of countries — including Vietnam, Russia [continue reading…]
At the Nationalities Services Center, Akbar Ahmadzai can help native speakers of 150 languages better understand English. Ahmadzai, the director of language access and proficiency, oversees two programs: NSC’s year-round ESL classes and its interpretation [continue reading…]
The African Family Health Organization, located on Chestnut Street near 44th Street, works with African and Caribbean refugees to connect them with health and social services around the city. AFAHO’s services include ESL courses, case [continue reading…]
All along Bustleton Avenue are businesses built by foreign-born people who came to the U.S. in pursuit of a better life. Yet many highly educated and skilled immigrants are underemployed in Northeast Philadelphia and the [continue reading…]
For adults who have recently immigrated to the United States, whether working or unemployed, daily life can often be a struggle in and of itself. Resources to cultivate educational opportunities or to develop second-language skills [continue reading…]
With nine restaurants in Philadelphia alone, Iron Chef Jose Garces is synonymous with the city’s culinary culture. A second generation immigrant, Garces uses his success to support the Garces Foundation, his nonprofit that works to [continue reading…]
A chanting voice flows out of the top floor windows of the Chua Bo De Buddhist Temple in South Philadelphia. A drum beat signals the followers to recite the mantra. Draped in plain blue robes, [continue reading…]
Immigrants trying to establish a new life in Philadelphia face many barriers. Financial hardships and finding a place to live can be especially arduous if they lack what most locals take for granted – like [continue reading…]
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