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The Patriot Act

The Patriot Act

Introduction

In the late 18th century, the United States of America was still an infant country struggling to define its national identity. It was during this period that the Alien and Sedition Acts were passed by the Federalist-controlled Congress and signed into law by President John Adams. These laws marked a significant departure from American political tradition, blurring the line between legitimate dissent and criminal sedition. The Alien and Sedition Acts have since become a landmark moment in American history, raising important questions about the scope and reach of federal power.

What were the Alien and Sedition Acts?

The Alien and Sedition Acts were a series of four laws passed by the U.S. Congress in 1798. They were enacted under the administration of President John Adams and were designed to protect the newly formed nation from foreign subversion and internal dissent. The four laws were:

1. The Naturalization Act – This law increased the residency requirement for aliens to become citizens from 5 to 14 years and authorized the president to deport any alien deemed dangerous to the security of the nation.

2. The Alien Friends Act – This law allowed the president to deport any alien considered a threat to national security during peacetime without a trial or due process.

3. The Alien Enemies Act – This law allowed the government to deport aliens from hostile nations during wartime and to detain them for the duration of the conflict.

4. The Sedition Act – This law made it a crime to criticize the President or Congress and imposed fines and imprisonment for anyone found guilty of such offenses.

Reasons for the Alien and Sedition Acts

The Alien and Sedition Acts were passed in response to a number of perceived threats to American national security. At the time, tensions were high between the United States and France, which had recently declared war on Great Britain. The French Revolution had also raised concerns about potential political instability and the spread of radical ideas.

The political climate in the U.S. was also becoming increasingly turbulent, with bitter partisan disputes between the Federalist Party, which controlled the government, and the Democratic-Republicans. The Federalists believed that the Sedition Act was necessary to stifle dissent and protect the government from opposition, while the Democratic-Republicans viewed it as an attack on the First Amendment right to free speech.

Controversy and Criticism

The Alien and Sedition Acts were immediately controversial and triggered a wave of opposition from both politicians and citizens. The Sedition Act, in particular, came under heavy criticism for its oppressive impact on free speech and the press.

Many Americans saw the Sedition Act as a flagrant violation of the First Amendment, which guaranteed the right to free speech and a free press. Several newspaper editors were arrested and tried under the law, including the renowned political journalist James Callender, who accused President John Adams of being a hoary-headed incendiary, who wished nothing more than to see the government overturned.

The Alien Acts also drew criticism for their perceived targeting of immigrants and for being a thinly disguised attempt to suppress opposition to the Federalist Party. The Naturalization Act, in particular, was seen as an attempt to limit the political power of immigrants, who tended to support the Democratic-Republicans.

Repeal and Legacy

The Alien and Sedition Acts proved to be highly controversial and politically divisive, and their impact on American society and politics was significant. Despite widespread opposition, the laws remained in effect for several years, and their legacy continues to shape the debate over the limits of federal power and freedom of speech in the United States.

The Alien Friends Act expired in 1800, while the Naturalization Act was amended in 1802 to revert back to the original 5-year residency requirement. The Sedition Act expired in 1801, but by then it had already had a profound impact on American political and legal philosophy. The Supreme Court case of Marbury v. Madison, decided in 1803, established the principle of judicial review and put the judiciary on an equal footing with the other branches of government.

Conclusion

The Alien and Sedition Acts represent a critical moment in American history, raising important questions about the balance between national security and individual freedoms. They were passed during a time of great uncertainty and political turbulence, and their lasting impact underscores the importance of adhering to the principles of free speech and the rule of law. Despite the controversy and criticism that surrounded their passage and implementation, the Alien and Sedition Acts remain a crucial part of the American political and legal heritage.


What is the Patriot Act?

Introduction to Patriot Act

The USA PATRIOT act is an acronym that stands for the “Uniting (and) Strengthening America (by) Providing Appropriate Tools Required (to) Intercept (and) Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001” which granted American law
enforcement unprecedented rights to gather intelligence and abridge civil liberties in the face of the terrorist threat to the United States.  The Patriot Act was passed by Congress by overwhelming margins in 2001, renewed in 2006 and once again extended by President Obama in 2011.

Provisions of the Patriot Act

There are ten parts to the Patriot Act, each concerning a different aspect of anti-terrorism efforts.  Only sections that remain in effect will be listed as many of the original sections expired in 2006.  Provisions of the Patriot Act were subject to sunset clauses, or a mandatory expiration by a certain date, requiring those provisions to be re-approved.

Title I of Patriot Act: Enhancing Domestic Security against Terrorism

Section 101 of Patriot Act – provides for an unlimited Counterterrorism Fund to compensate the Department of Justice for costs of assessing terror threats, paying rewards to informants and rebuilding facilities destroyed by terrorist attacks

Section 102 of Patriot Act – affirms the civil rights of South Asian, Arab and other Muslims in the United States
and condemns post-9/11 retaliation against these groups.  This section rejects collective responsibility for wrongdoing and affirms that these groups will be treated as individuals.

Section 103 of Patriot Act – Promises $200 million to the FBI for a Technical Support Center

Section 104 of Patriot Act – Allows for the intervention of military troops, with the consent of the Attorney
General, in the event non-chemical weapons of mass destruction are used against Americans domestically or abroad.

Section 105 of Patriot Act – Assigns the Secret Service with the task of creating a National Electronic Crime Task
Force for preventing fiduciary damage against the electronic finance systems

Section 106 of Patriot Act – The President is allowed to investigate the transactions of foreign nationals and countries and seize their assets, without due process if they participate on an attack against the United States.

The content of these sections represent an increase in Presidential power and the authorization of various
government agencies to investigate possible terrorist activity in the United States.

Title 2 of Patriot Act: Enhanced Surveillance Procedures

Section 203a/c of Patriot Act – Streamlined procedures to disclose information between the courts and the government during grand jury deliberations or proceedings.  Subsection c gave the authority to the Attorney General to establish the procedures by which this information is disclosed.

Section 205 of Patriot Act – Grants the FBI the power to employ translators to support counter terror operations
without typical limitation and regulations set on typical federal employees.  The Director of the FBI must
regularly disclose the number of translators employed in this manner to Congress.

Section 208 of Patriot Act – Amended from the original to require 11 (formerly 7) judges to review a surveillance order, with three judges living within 20 miles of the capital.

Section 210/11 of Patriot Act – Affirms the right of the government to force a communications provider to hand over records of electronic communication.

Section 213 of Patriot Act – The government may conduct searches without immediately notifying the suspect of
the warrant.  This is viewed as necessary to prevent the tipping off of co-conspirators.

Section 216  of Patriot Act – Limits the use of electronic surveillance equipment in investigations

Section 219 of Patriot Act – Allows judges to issues search warrants both in and outside of the jurisdiction that
pertain to a terrorism investigation.

Section 221 of Patriot Act – Refers to trade sanctions against state sponsors of terrorism, weapons proliferation and drug trafficking.

Section 222 of Patriot Act – Limits the degree of cooperation of a telecommunications provider and law enforcement to the provisions of the Patriot Act alone.

Title II has previously given sweeping power to federal authorities to intercept communications that might be related to terrorist plots but many of those provisions have since expired.  There are now limitations on the use of surveillance devices and the ability of law enforcement to conduct searches.  Many of the provisions, such
as delayed notifications of warrants apply in domestic law as well.  Ongoing investigations started prior to 2006
retain the expired provisions until he conclusion of the investigation.  Critics have argued that this section does
not provide reasonable safeguards against the harassment of innocent civilians by law enforcement by compromising their electronic privacy.

Title III of Patriot Act – International Money Laundering Abatement and Financial Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001

Subtitle A – This section is comprised of regulations to prevent money laundering including restrictions on certain types of bank accounts, financial institutions’ relationships with foreign entities and increasing communication between these institutions and the government.  It also increased criminal penalties for
money laundering for the purposes of financing attacks, corruption and trafficking.

Subtitle B – Banks must now notify US Intelligence if they see suspicious activity in bank accounts and require the reporting of foreign currency over $10,000.  The bank cannot be held liable for the disclosure of personal information to federal authorities.

Subtitle C – This section deals primarily with currency smuggling by stopping the movement of bulk currency to be sold on the black market.  It is a criminal offense to conceal currency over $10,000 on one’s person or in luggage.  Failure to report the currency subjects it to forfeiture.

Title IV of Patriot Act – Protecting the Border

Subtitle A – The section provides for the protection of the Northern Border with Canada by increasing the number of personnel available to monitor the border.  This set extra pay and overtime to Border Patrol and other enforcement personnel watching the border.  This section also appropriated more funds to upgrade border security

Subtitle B – This amended the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit representatives of foreign terrorist organizations from entering the US.  Their family may also be prohibiting from entering the United States depending on the circumstances.  This is to prevent the possibility of attacks or the collection of funds to finance future attacks.  This act also provides the language and structure to classify terrorist organizations and what actions constitute a terrorist attack.  The Secretary of State has the ability to declare organizations as terrorists and this designation can be reviewed and renewed every two years.

Subtitle B also provides for mandatory detention provisions for aliens engaged in terrorist activity or espionage for up to 90 days for 6 months if the detainee is confirmed to be a threat to national security.  This process is
subject to judicial review and the number of aliens detained must be reported to the Attorney General.  Additional provisions required the monitoring of foreign students and the sharing of information about potential terrorism suspects with other foreign jurisdictions.

Subtitle C – This section allowed the preservation of the rights of immigrants that have had loved ones killed as a result of terrorist acts or renewal proceedings disrupted as a result of terrorist attacks in the Fall of 2001
(including anthrax attacks).  Two years immediately after the attacks those who had lost loved ones could receive US citizenship after filing a petition with the US Attorney General.

Title V of Patriot Act – Removal of Obstacles to Investigating Terrorism

The eight sections of this act provide for

–    The payment of awards to those that inform on terrorists (Section 501) or offers intelligence that allows for the significant disruption or dismantling of a terrorist organization (Section 502)

–    Cooperation with local law enforcement by sharing intelligence obtained from abroad to prevent attacks (Section 503)

–    Absolving educational institutions of liability for releasing records to law enforcement (Section 507)

–    Broad powers to the Secret Service to investigate computer fraud (Section 506)

The section also included provisions to allow an alternative subpoena, called a National Security Letter, which allowed the FBI and other government agencies to force organizations turn over records to the government on particular individuals (Section 505).  These organizations were forbidden to challenge the NSL and were forbidden to reveal the request due to a gag order.  The use of SELS was challenged in Doe v. Ashcroft in 2004 and was found to be unconstitutional and subject to stringent regulations to prevent abuse.  Doe v Ashcroft would continue through the appointment of other attorney generals up until the present Attorney General
Eric Holder.  Federal courts finally ruled against the government opposing the lack of a process to challenge the
subpoena and the lack of a right for the subpoenaed party to disclose the subpoena.  The NSL is currently under review and may proceed to the Supreme Court.

Title VI of Patriot Act: Victims and families of victims of terrorism

This Title provided relief funds for families that have lost members due to terrorist attacks.  This covers emergency workers as well as the general public.  The relief fund may include private donors and has been expanded to include all US possessions, including Puerto Rico and the US Pacific Territories.

Title VII of Patriot Act: Increased information sharing for critical infrastructure protection

This section streamlines communication between the government and law enforcement and allows them to cross jurisdictions to investigate terrorist conspiracies.  It further defines terrorism as a criminal activity.

Title VIII of Patriot Act: Terrorism criminal law

This section redefines several crimes such as assassination, kidnapping, racketeering and cyber warfare as acts of terror.  Specifically this Title created a special punishment for attacking a mass transit system punishable with life imprisonment for the death of any person.

Additional penalties included a prohibition on harboring terrorists subject to imprisonment of up to ten years,
seizing the assets of individuals or organizations involved in terrorism and punishing those that provided material assistance to terrorists.  The last provision was amended to clarify the definition of “material assistance” as the original wording was broad and could subject innocent or unknowing collaborators to unfair charges.

Title IX of Patriot Act: Improved Intelligence

This section improves procedures to disseminate intelligence gathered from electronic sources to the US Attorney General in regards to investigating foreign sources.

Title X of Patriot Act: Miscellaneous

These are a number of unrelated provisions including penalties for impersonating a Red Cross workers, training
foreign police organizations and studying the use of biometric information linked to the FBI database at border security checkpoints.

It’s Time to Learn the Green Card Process

It's Time to Learn the Green Card Process

It’s Time to Learn the Green Card Process

One of the biggest challenges immigrants face when trying to live and work in the United States is obtaining a green card. A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, is a legal document that allows a foreign national to live and work in the United States indefinitely. It is an important step for immigrants who want to make the United States their home, but navigating the green card process can be confusing and overwhelming. In this article, we will explore the green card process and provide updated information using government resources to help you better understand this important step.

What is a Green Card?

A green card is a legal document that allows foreign nationals to permanently live and work in the United States. It provides permanent residency status and is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Holding a green card allows a foreign national to enjoy many of the same rights and privileges as U.S. citizens, including driving privileges, access to healthcare, and the ability to travel outside of the United States and return without restrictions.

The Types of Green Cards Available

There are several types of green cards available, each with their own unique eligibility requirements. Here are some of the most common types of green cards available:

Family-Based Green Cards – Family-based green cards are the most common type of green card available. These green cards are issued to foreign nationals who are married to a U.S. citizen, have parents who are U.S. citizens, or have siblings who are U.S. citizens.

Employment-Based Green Cards – Employment-based green cards are issued to foreign nationals who have a job offer in the United States. These green cards are often issued to professionals with specialized skills, athletes, investors, and more.

Diversity Immigrant Visa – The Diversity Immigrant Visa, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a program that randomly selects 50,000 foreign nationals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. The lottery aims to increase diversity in the United States.

Humanitarian Green Cards – Humanitarian green cards are issued to refugees, asylees, and other foreign nationals who are fleeing persecution in their home country. These green cards are issued to individuals who are seeking protection in the United States.

Steps to Obtain a Green Card

The green card application process can be long and complex, but it is a necessary step for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the United States permanently. Here are the general steps to obtain a green card:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility – The first step in applying for a green card is to determine eligibility. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for the specific type of green card they are applying for, which can include factors such as age, education, work experience, and more.

Step 2: File a Petition – After determining eligibility, the next step is to file a petition with the USCIS. The type of petition filed will depend on the specific type of green card the applicant is seeking.

Step 3: Attend the Interview – After the petition is processed and approved, the applicant must attend an interview with the USCIS. During the interview, the USCIS officer will ask questions about the applicant’s background and reason for wanting to live in the United States. The applicant must also provide documentation to support their application.

Step 4: Receive a Decision – After the interview, the USCIS will review the applicant’s application and make a decision. If the application is approved, the USCIS will issue a green card to the applicant.

Recent Changes to the Green Card Process

The green card process has undergone some recent changes that applicants should be aware of. In October 2020, the USCIS announced a new fee schedule that significantly increased the cost of obtaining a green card. The new fees went into effect on October 2, 2020, and include increases for filing and biometric fees.

In addition to the fee increases, the USCIS also announced changes to the Form I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency. This form is used to determine whether an applicant is likely to become a public charge, or someone who relies on government assistance to survive. Starting on February 24, 2020, the USCIS will not accept any Form I-944 submitted with an application. Instead, the USCIS will only accept applications that are submitted without the Form I-944.

Navigating the Green Card Process

Navigating the green card process can be daunting, but there are resources available to help applicants. The USCIS website has a wealth of information about the green card process, including eligibility requirements, application forms, and other resources. Applicants can also consult with an immigration attorney for more personalized guidance and support.

Conclusion

Obtaining a green card is an important step for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the United States permanently. Though the process can be challenging, with careful preparation and guidance, immigrants can successfully navigate the green card process and achieve their goal of living and working in the United States. Aspiring immigrants should take advantage of the available resources, such as the USCIS website and immigration attorneys, to help them understand and navigate the green card process.


The green card application process is relatively involved, but certainly not insurmountable to anyone who has the proper documentation and assistance in obtaining a green card. The first steps of the green card process involve checking on a number of important preliminary concerns. For example, someone interested in submitting a green card application should first check the filing fees for such a green card application, and should ensure that he or she is prepared to pay those costs.

Furthermore, anyone submitting a green card application should check the green card processing time for the green card process, as the green card processing time may play an important role in determining exactly when an individual should submit a green card application and begin the green card process. For example, if an individual had a visa that allowed him or her to remain within the country up until a certain date, then it would be advisable for him or her to check the green card processing time and determine at exactly what point he or she should submit a green card application.

Green card processing time will also likely depend on exactly how many green card applications will likely be submitted at or around the same time. An individual beginning the green card process will also need to find a doctor for him or herself in the green card process.

They key element of the green card process is the submission of the actual green card application to the proper office. It is currently possible to submit a green card application online, as well. A green card application must be dependent on some basis for a green card, including that the individual applying for a green card is being sponsored by a family member or a job, or that the person applying for a green card has refugee or asylee status.

Steps To Fulbright Scholarship Grants

Steps To Fulbright Scholarship Grants

Steps To Fulbright Scholarship Grants: Fulfill Your Dream of Studying Abroad

The Fulbright Program is a wonderful opportunity for students, scholars, teachers, and professionals from all around the world to come together and explore a variety of academic fields while promoting cross-cultural understanding. Each year, the program awards around 8,000 grants to people from more than 160 countries. The highly competitive Fulbright program is designed to support students and scholars in furthering their academic and professional goals by providing them with funding, travel expenses, and a unique cultural immersion experience abroad.

If you are interested in being a part of the Fulbright program, this article will provide you with all the essential steps involved in applying and obtaining a Fulbright scholarship. This article will help you to familiarize yourself with the program’s requirements, deadlines, and process, and will share helpful tips to stand out from the crowd of applicants.

1. Understand the Types of Fulbright Scholarships Available

The Fulbright Program offers a range of scholarship types to students, scholars, and professionals based on their academic background, field of study, and location. Scholarship types include:

– Study/Research Grants: For graduate students or researchers who want to study or conduct research for periods ranging from three months to a year.
– English Teaching Assistantships: Opportunities for English teachers or aspiring teachers to spend up to nine months abroad as teaching assistants in schools or universities.
– Fulbright Specialist Program: For established professionals, this program provides two to six-weeks consulting assignments abroad.
– Fulbright International Education Administrators Program: For education administrators and leaders interested in learning about education governance, management, and administration, this program provides short-term or multi-country educational seminars.

Each scholarship type has specific eligibility requirements and a different application process. You should research what scholarship types are available for your academic or professional background to determine which program best fits your career goals.

2. Meet the Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Fulbright scholarship, applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

– Must be a U.S. citizen, resident, or national.
– Must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, and in some cases, must hold a higher degree or have significant professional experiences.
– Proficiency in the host country’s language is not a requirement, but the ability to communicate in the local language is beneficial, and some programs may require it.

Additional requirements may apply to different scholarship types, and each grant may have different eligibility criteria, such as minimum GPA, age restrictions, and more.

3. a Host Country

After analyzing the available types of scholarships and fulfilling the eligibility criteria, the next step is to decide where you want to pursue your studies or research. The Fulbright Program covers a wide range of countries in every region of the world, which can make it difficult to decide where to go.

It’s essential to choose a country that is familiar to you or one that appeals to your personal and academic interests. Additionally, it’s best to consider the availability of academic institutions, research opportunities, and overall quality of life in your intended destination.

4. Find a Host Institution or Advisor

Once you have the country you want to study in, identify a suitable academic institution where you would like to study or research. It’s important to research potential institutions that offer your preferred courses or research opportunities.

Additionally, you should reach out to potential advisors or professors whom you would like to work with, as they can be helpful in providing more insights about research opportunities or suggest local resources that might be beneficial. It’s essential that you establish a mutual and professional relationship with the proposed host institution or advisor.

5. Research the Application Process and Timeline

The Fulbright application process is highly competitive and involves several stages. Therefore, it’s essential to pay close attention to the application requirements and the deadlines for each stage. Responding late or missing application deadlines may result in disqualification.

The application process for Fulbright scholarships begins about a year before the intended commencement of the program. The application process for study/research grants usually begins in the late summer or early fall for the following academic year. Meanwhile, English teaching assistantships applications typically have deadlines in October, with the program commencing in the fall of the following year.

It’s important to check the Fulbright website for the latest updates and be aware of any changes in the deadlines or requirements for the intended scholarship type you want to apply to.

6. Prepare Your Application Documents and Essays

After understanding the application process, it’s time to begin gathering necessary application documents and preparing your essays. Every scholarship type has its application requirements, but in general, the following documents are necessary:

– Application Form
– Resume or Curriculum Vitae
– Transcripts for all college-level coursework
– Three Letters of Recommendation
– Statement of Grant Purpose (2-5 pages)
– Personal Statement (1 page)

The Statement of Grant Purpose outlines the student’s proposed academic or research project. The Personal Statement provides an opportunity for the student to share their background, experience, and motivation for wanting to pursue the proposed project. It’s important to give your essays lots of thought and organize the points to be clear, persuasive, and authentic. Make sure to proofread and refine your essays numerous times before submitting.

7. Submit the Application

With all required documents ready, it’s time to submit your application. The application should be submitted online through the Fulbright website. The submission deadline may vary depending on the scholarship type; therefore, check the website for the latest updates or program changes.

8. Fulbright Program Review and Interview ion

The Fulbright Program office will review your application and determine if you meet the program requirements. If you meet the requirements, you will be invited to an interview. The interview is necessary to assess your suitability for the fellowship. The interviews typically take place in a U.S. city and are conducted by a ion committee. The interview aims to evaluate your academic and personal qualifications, your language skills, and your commitment to the Fulbright Program objectives.

9. Fulbright Scholarship Award Notification

The Fulbright Student Program receives a large number of applications every year, and it is incredibly competitive. Therefore, the ion process is rigorous. After the application review and interview, each candidate will receive notification via email confirming their application status, whether ed or not.

If you are ed, the email will contain a conditional grant letter stating the result of the competition, terms of the grant, and deadline for acceptance. The letter contains extensive information about the scholarship, including the grant duration, available funds, and any required pre-departure orientation.

10. Fulfill Any Pre-Departure Requirements

If ed, awardees are required to fulfill any pre-departure requirements, such as obtaining appropriate visas, health requirements, and travel arrangements. Additionally, it’s essential that you attend the mandatory pre-departure orientation program to prepare yourself fully for the Fulbright experience.

Conclusion

The Fulbright Program is a highly competitive and rewarding opportunity for American students, scholars, and professionals looking to pursue intellectual exploration and cultural exchange. The program offers significant advantages such as academic support, research funding, and an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in another culture.

By following the above-listed steps, you can boost your chances of being ed for the Fulbright scholarship program. As you prepare to apply and embark on the Fulbright experience, it is essential to remain focused and dedicated to the objectives of the program, which is to foster mutual understanding between the United States and other countries around the world.


Is Fulbright Scholarship Right For Me?

The Fulbright Program was conceived as a competitive international educational exchange program for
talented US citizens to travel abroad while studying, teaching or conducting research.  Similarly, non-US citizens may come to the United States to conduct similar activities.  Approximately 8,000 Fulbright scholarships are given out every year through the US Department of State with funding furnished by Congress with some alternate funding from foundations, corporations and other governments.  The total congressional contribution to the Fulbright Program was $253.8 million in 2010 with an additional $85.2 million contributed by other sources.  To date, 155 countries participate in the Fulbright program on a bi-lateral basis.

History

The Fulbright program was the brainchild of Arkansas senator William J Fulbright who suggested selling
surplus materials from World War II and putting the proceeds toward an international exchange program for the advancement of world peace.  The first Fulbright participants went abroad in 1948 and since then 310,000 individuals have been program participants.  To date, there are 43 Nobel Prize and 78 Pulitzer Prize winners that were participants in the Fulbright Program.  Senator Fulbright remained an avid supporter and advocate for the program until his death in 1995.

Select Fulbright grants:

For US citizens

–       Fulbright US Student Program –

o  Sends students and young professionals to study abroad for a year with the opportunity to teach English

–       Fulbright-mtvU Fellowship

o  Gives 4 US students to study an aspect of music and its relation to other cultures, sharing their experiences through social media

–       Fulbright US Scholar Program

o   Sends US scholars and professionals abroad for a year to teach or research

–       Fulbright Specialist Program

o  Sends US scholars and professionals abroad for two – six weeks to serve as specialists for curriculum and institution planning at foreign academic institutions

For foreign citizens

–       The Fulbright Foreign Student Program

o  Allows foreign students to study in the United States for one year, with the possibility of renewal.

–       The Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant Program

o   Invites foreign English teachers to improve their skills in the United States at various colleges and universities.


Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program &
Fulbright Scholar in Residence Program

o  Invites foreign scholars to teach or conduct research at colleges and universities in the United States for a year.

–       Hubert H Humphrey Program

o  Invites professionals from developing countries to the United States for study and experience.

–       The International Fulbright Science and Technology Award

o   Invites foreign students to pursue doctoral study in science, technology and engineering for outstanding students.

There are additional programs for teacher exchange and excellence in education.  Additionally, the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) sponsors US undergraduate students to study languages important to American policy and foreign affairs.

Who administers Fulbright grants?

The Fulbright Program is the responsibility of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the US
Department of State.  The Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board is made up of twelve members, appointed by the President to serve as a steering committee for the program and approve all grant recipients.  In foreign countries, there may be a bi-national Fulbright commission or foundation dedicated to screening, recruiting and
publicizing the Fulbright program.  In countries without a commission, the US Embassy publicity handles the
commission’s duties to recruit potential grant recipients.

Specialized committees such as AMIDEAST and LASPAU administer grants for the Middle East and Latin
America/Caribbean respectively.

What does one study on a Fulbright grant?

What are other organizations that are related to Fulbright grants?

What is included in a Fulbright grant?

How do I apply for a Fulbright grant?

Are there group grants?

Who is eligible?

Any and all persons involved with the State Department or an immediate family member There is a variety of
subjects that can be studied under a Fulbright grant from humanities to science and technology.  It will not support an individual entering medical school but will support studies and research into patient care and public/global health.  There are no grants for the role purpose of learning English.  There are specialized enhancement grants for US students that intend to go to a country with a language identified as “critical” by the US State Department.  These languages include Mandarin Chinese, Korea, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu and Farsi.

The Fulbright Association, which is not associated with the government, is a private non-profit group of
Fulbright alumni that educate Congress on the continued needs of the program and its mission.  They award the J. William Fulbright Prize for International Understanding to exceptional individuals that contribute to world peace and foster international cooperation.

The Fulbright Academy is also not affiliated with the program but is an alumni association that serves as a
support network to foster collaboration and support amongst its members.  It boasts approximately 9,000 members and serves as support for new Fulbright members.

Most Fulbright grants include roundtrip transportation, stipend, tuition and insurance as well as
compensation for travel and participation in mandatory Fulbright events.  Students from other countries are entitled to receive some orientation and pre-academic programs to improve their English language skills, especially when dealing with technical subjects such as law and health.

If you are an exceptional and high achieving individual, you may be selected to receive a Fulbright grant.  You must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership and a feasible project that can be completed with the funds.  Generally speaking, you must apply to the program fifteen to twelve months before the grant is administers.  The https://fulbright.state.gov will provide you with a list of available grants and where the applications to those grants may be sent.  Applications are not submitted to this website.

Bear in mind that the Fulbright program is bi-national and will only fund American students going abroad or
foreign students studying in America.  It will not fund foreign students seeking to study in other countries.  It also does not fund foreign students already in the US.

The most common method for an American to apply to the Fulbright program is through their university or
college which can guide them through the process.  Larger institutions will have a Fulbright advisor for the purpose of recommending and guiding prospective applicants.

Should you be deemed eligible for further examination, you will be given a language test to ensure you have
adequate proficiency in the language of the target country.  Foreign applicants will need to demonstrate
English proficiency.  The applicant will also need to submit GRE or GMAT scores depending on the American program they are enrolling in, based on the standards of the institution.

The Fulbright-Hayes Group Project Abroad Program is a department of education grant that funds groups seeking to study humanities, foreign language or social sciences abroad for the purposes of group study or curriculum development.  These educators collectively work especially to increase understanding of area studies and develop a curriculum to be used in the United States.

There may be age restrictions and recommendations attached to each grant.

Fulbright US Student Program

Holding a doctorate will disqualify an applicant from the Fulbright Program.  Qualifications will vary depending on the type and location of the grant, but the applicant must have a bachelor’s degree and a proficiency in the language of the country they are applying to work in.

Fulbright US Scholar Program

The applicant must have a Ph.D. and teaching experience as well as demonstrate the foreign language proficiency needed to carry out the project.

Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program

All that is required for this program is a bachelor’s degree, full time teaching assignment and English fluency.

`Foreign Fulbright applicants must meet the individual requirements set by their country’s Fulbright Commission.  They cannot have US citizenship/permanent residency.  Scholars must have a doctoral degree or relevant experience as well as English language proficiency.

How are candidates selected?

Candidates are assessed on merit based on their record of achievement, language preparation/proficiency and
their project proposal.  Depending on the project, several organizations may be involved in assessing the candidate in a collaborative process that also involves embassies in the target country.

Alabama Immigration Law Forces Hispanic Students out of School

Alabama Immigration Law Forces Hispanic Students out of School

Alabama Immigration Law Forces Hispanic Students out of School

In 2011, the state of Alabama passed one of the most draconian immigration laws in the United States. Known as The Beason-Hammon Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act, the law aimed to curb illegal immigration in the state by imposing harsh restrictions on undocumented immigrants. However, as many critics have pointed out, the law had unintended consequences that affected not only immigrants but also U.S. citizens and legal residents. One of the most troubling consequences of the law was the forced departure of many Hispanic students from Alabama public schools. This article will explore how this happened and what it means for the education and future of these students.

Background

The Beason-Hammon Act was signed into law by Governor Robert Bentley on June 9, 2011, and went into effect on September 28 of that year. The law introduced a range of measures designed to make life difficult for undocumented immigrants in Alabama. Among other things, the law made it a crime for undocumented immigrants to live or work in the state, required police officers to check the immigration status of anyone they suspected of being in the country illegally, and made it illegal for landlords to rent to undocumented immigrants. The law also required public schools to verify the citizenship and immigration status of students upon enrollment and report the information to the state.

As soon as the law went into effect, it became clear that its impact would be far-reaching and devastating for many residents of the state. An estimated 120,000 undocumented immigrants lived in Alabama at the time, and many of them worked in agriculture, construction, and other low-wage jobs. Once the law made it illegal for them to work or rent a home, many of them faced the prospect of homelessness and hunger. The law also had a chilling effect on the entire Hispanic community, which feared that they would be subject to racial profiling and discrimination by law enforcement.

Impact on Public Schools

One of the most pernicious effects of the Beason-Hammon Act was the way it affected public education in Alabama. The law required all public schools to collect data on the citizenship and immigration status of its students and report the information to the state. This meant that many Hispanic students who were U.S. citizens or legal residents were suddenly subject to scrutiny and suspicion from school officials. Some schools went so far as to ask students to provide proof of their parents’ legal status, which many families found intrusive and offensive.

The law also had an immedia impact on the enrollment of Hispanic students. Many families were afraid to send their children to school out of fear that they would be subject to harassment or deportation. Some families decided to leave the state altogether, preferring to relocate to other states where they felt they would be safer. Others simply kept their children at home, hoping that the situation would improve over time.

As a result of these dynamics, many school districts in Alabama reported a significant decline in the enrollment of Hispanic students. In some cases, the decline was as much as 50%, meaning that many Hispanic students were effectively forced out of school. This was not only a tragedy for the individual students but also a serious blow to the educational system as a whole. Studies have shown that the inclusion and integration of students from diverse backgrounds is essential for creating a thriving learning environment.

Legal Challenges

The Beason-Hammon Act faced legal challenges almost from the moment it was signed into law. Opponents of the law argued that it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits states from discriminating against individuals based on their race or national origin. In 2012, a federal court blocked some of the most controversial provisions of the law, including the requirement that schools verify the citizenship and immigration status of their students. However, many of the law’s other provisions remained in effect.

In 2015, the Supreme Court of the United States issued a ruling that struck another blow to the Beason-Hammon Act. The Court found that a similar law in Texas, which required police officers to check the immigration status of anyone they suspected of being in the country illegally, violated the Equal Protection Clause because it had a discriminatory effect on Hispanic people. The ruling set a precedent that could be used to challenge laws like the Beason-Hammon Act in other states.

The Future of Alabama’s Hispanic Students

Today, Alabama remains a deeply divided state when it comes to immigration policy and its treatment of Hispanic residents. While some of the most draconian aspects of the Beason-Hammon Act have been struck down, the law still has a chilling effect on the entire Hispanic community. Many families continue to live in fear of deportation and harassment, and this has undoubtedly hindered the education of thousands of Hispanic students.

However, there are reasons to be hopeful about the future. Despite the challenges they face, many Hispanic students in Alabama have persevered and even thrived. Some have even become advocates for immigrant rights and helped to change the conversation about immigration in the state. Moreover, there are many organizations and individuals who are working to support the education and well-being of Hispanic students in Alabama and other states.

Conclusion

The Beason-Hammon Act was a dark moment in Alabama’s history, one that brought fear and uncertainty to thousands of its residents. However, it also served as a wake-up call, reminding us of the importance of inclusion, diversity, and respect for human rights. We have a long way to go before we achieve these goals, but we can take inspiration from the resilience and determination of the Hispanic students who have refused to be silenced by this unjust law. As we move forward, we must remember that education is a fundamental human right that should be available to all, regardless of their immigration status. By working together, we can ensure that this vision becomes a reality for all students, now and in the future.


Alabama schools are witnessing abnormally high rates of absences for Hispanic students after the state enacted what is widely regarded as the toughest anti-immigration law in the United States.

The immigration law, which was unanimously approved by the state legislature, allows law enforcement officers to check for papers and detain undocumented residents without bail. The Alabama immigration law also mandates that public schools share with authorities the residence and citizenship status of all newly enrolled students.

In response to the law’s enactment, throngs of Hispanic students skipped classes out of fear of deportation or imprisonment. In response to the drastic number of absences and the brutal reality of the law, legislators responsible for the reform claim, assured residents that the law is merely about statistics and not about enforcing brutal penalties on its inhabitants.

Under the Alabama immigration law, schools are required to ask new students to either submit a birth certificate or sworn proof that they are in the United States legally. However, if the students are unable to provide such documentation they are still able to attend school. Under the law, neither the students nor the parents will be arrested for failing to provide proper documentation.

After the student submits (or fails to) his/her documentation, the school provides statistical information to the state concerning the number of students who were able to provide citizenship papers.

Alabama requires all schools to follow this immigration policy. The state made available form letters that schools send to parents of new students to clarify the requirements of the immigration law and inform parents that they should not be frightened or concerned if they are unable to provide sworn documents reflecting citizenship.