[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 37 (Monday, September 20, 1999)]
[Page 1762]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Statement on the Common Ground Partnerships Initiative

September 17, 1999

    Today, as we celebrate Citizenship Day and Constitution Week, 
thousands of individuals in naturalization ceremonies across America are 
pledging their allegiance to the United States and to the ideals that 
undergird our Nation. Like generations of immigrants past, they are 
driven by a dream--and to achieve that dream, they seek to learn the 
ways of this land. I believe we can help these new citizens become full 
participants in American society. That is why my administration has 
proposed the creation of the Common Ground Partnerships, an innovative 
initiative that would combine expanded English language instruction with 
education in civics and life skills. This initiative, which my FY 2000 
budget funds at $70 million, will help ensure that those who become 
Americans learn not only the words of the citizenship oath but also the 
broader language of our civic life. I hope that Members of Congress from 
both parties will recognize the power of this important initiative to 
build a stronger American community.