[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 91 (Thursday, May 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E727]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AND SCHOLARS

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                       HON. DONALD S. BEYER, JR.

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 25, 2017

  Mr. BEYER. Mr. Speaker, today I stand in recognition of international 
students and scholars, and the U.S. institutions of higher education 
they attend, all of which are bearing the brunt of this 
Administration's rhetoric and actions. To ensure our nation's security, 
economic well-being, and academic leadership, we must remain an open 
and welcoming nation.
  According to the Association of International Educators, 
international students and their families contributed nearly $33 
billion to the U.S. economy during the 2015-2016 academic year. 
International students who have spent time in the United States become 
informal ambassadors when they return home, carrying an appreciation 
for common values, counteracting stereotypes about the U.S., and 
enhancing respect for cultural differences. They also act as cultural 
liaisons for U.S. students and help them succeed as global citizens.
  Actions taken by this Administration have generated a great deal of 
uncertainty within U.S. academia. Many currently-enrolled international 
students and scholars will choose not to travel home at the end of the 
academic year, for fear they might not be allowed to return in the 
fall. Unsurprisingly, for prospective students, nearly 40 percent of 
higher education institutions reported application declines in 
international students for the first time in many years.
  We must stop the anti-immigrant rhetoric and make the United States 
an open and welcoming country for the bright, ambitious international 
students who contribute greatly to our country.
  I urge my colleagues and the Administration to recognize the vital 
contribution international students and their families make when we 
welcome them to this great country.
  To the international students and scholars who may be unsure about 
coming, I say: Your contributions are valued and you are welcome here.

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