Earlier this spring, citizenship student Amirou (center) celebrated passing his citizenship test with his class and tutors, Chris and Pati. Amirou is one of 25 Literacy Network students this year who have become U.S. citizens—putting us on track for a record number of new citizens in 2025. This exciting progress came to an abrupt halt on March 27, when the Department of Homeland Security terminated funding for Literacy Network’s citizenship program, effective immediately, with $74,000 left on the grant.
What Was the Federal Grant?
In 2023, Literacy Network was thrilled to receive our first-ever direct federal grant to support our citizenship program. This two-year grant allowed us to partner with fellow nonprofit Centro to support Lawful Permanent Residents through the entire U.S. naturalization process. Through the collaboration:
- Literacy Network provided free classes (including classes at a new location on the northeast side of Madison) and tutoring to prepare applicants for the naturalization test and interview.
- Centro offered free legal services to assist with the application process.
This partnership was working! We saw increased class enrollment and 2025’s first-quarter numbers put us on track to surpass past records.
What Does the Funding Cut Mean?
Literacy Network’s top priority has always been our students. This will never change. We are committed to continuing to offer the programs students depend on to help them reach their goals.
However, the $74,000 funding loss will mean scaling back our citizenship program at this time. Specifically:
–We will reduce the number of citizenship classes offered each semester from four to three.
–We will no longer be able to offer free legal help through Centro.
This means reduced access and decreased support for students like Isabel (pictured), who shared, “When I came to Literacy Network, I couldn’t read, I couldn’t write, and now I’m a citizen!…Much success, yes, it is possible.”
How Are We Responding?
We will not passively accept the harm these cuts cause to our current and future students, who deserve the chance to achieve the security and opportunity becoming a U.S. citizen offers. Since receiving news of the funding cut, Literacy Network has:
–Filed a formal objection with the Department of Homeland Security. We have not received a response
–Spread the word about the cut and its impact on citizenship students. Click on the links below to hear from program graduates and Executive Director Robin Ryan in the following interviews: WMTV 15 (pictured, interviewing new citizen Rebeca), In Business, The Cap Times, Channel 3000, WKOW 27 News, WORT, Madison365, and The Washington Post.
Supporters Like You Are Vital!
We ask you to join us in opposing the funding cuts and saying “Yes!” to supporting immigrants with the goal of U.S. citizenship. There are more than 15,000 Lawful Permanent Residents in the Madison metropolitan area, and Literacy Network wants to be able to help those who seek support in the naturalization process. Your gift today helps mitigate the funding cut and sustain classes for current and future citizenship students.
Please also help us spread the word. Share the news stories above and this email with your networks to raise awareness of the funding cut and its impact.
Dane County thrives in part because immigrants choose to become citizens and participate in our democracy. With your support, we can continue to create the best community for all. Thank you!