To continue to deprive them of the right to become American citizens solely because of their educational deficiencies is tantamount to exiling them from the country where they have lived the greater part of their lives. whose laws they have. obeyed and upheld. whose taxes they have helped to pay. and to whose material wealth they have substantially contributed. They love this country because it means everything to themliberty. freedom. family. friends. peace. and security. The men and women included in this legislation are persons of 50 years of age or more. who have already declared their intentions to become American citizens and who have made every effort within their power to comply with the educational requirements of our naturalization laws. Because of their advanced years and lack of even a primary education in most cases. they have now reached a stage where no amount of preparation or schooling will enable them to pass satisfactorily the tests which they must undergo before they can become citizens. It is reasonable to assume that if they have been unable to acquire the necessary knowledge for citizenship during their early years of life that they will never be able to do so in their declining years. Unless our present naturalization laws are amended as suggested in my bill. these men and women will never become American citizens. In view of this impasse. is it just and fair for a true and free democracy. such as this Government of ours. to insist upon certain educational requirements as a condition precedent to granting the full protection of its laws to persons who by their every act during their long residence in this country. have shown themselves fit and most anxious to become its loyal citizens? Mr.
Keywords matched
naturalization