Overcoming Discrimination as an Immigrant by Learning English

Legal immigrants in America often face some of the same discrimination and prejudice as illegal immigrants do. Some native born citizens look down on immigrants and lump them in altogether as "illegals". But this is very inaccurate and untrue for legal immigrants who have gone through all of the legal channels in order to emigrate to America legally. If you are a legal permanent resident, or on your way to becoming one, this article is intended to help you effectively combat discrimination by learning to speak English.

How to overcome discrimination as an immigrant by learning English: Visit the library and learn some phrases before you move

One of the complaints that legal immigrants have to cope with is that they have not made any effort to learn English and that they expect others to learn their language. It is an overgeneralisation to say this at the least, but it does bring up the all important issue of language. If you are moving to America from a non-English speaking country, then it would be wise to try and familiarise yourself with some common expressions in English. Start off with greetings, days of the week, numbers and try to practice some sentences starting with "who?", "what?", "why?", and "where?" Do some extra research before you emigrate and visit your local library. There you will find audio cassettes and other aids that will help you to learn some useful phrases in English. Then invest in a good, pocket sized phrasebook and dictionary that you can carry with you wherever you may go.

How to overcome discrimination as an immigrant by learning English: Gain respect by speaking English more often

You will never be entirely fluent in English and you will most probably retain your accent, but that does not matter. It is true to say that in any foreign country you go to, you will prove more successful if you make an effort to converse in the native language. People will respect you more. That is also true in America. While people may smile politely as you speak your own language to them, they will respect you more if you make an effort to speak to them in English.