Dear Erica,
We did it! Earlier this week, 120 advocates from 44 states and every NAFSA Region leveraged their student stories, state-specific data, and professional expertise to engage almost 90 members of Congress on pressing issues affecting the field of international education and why it matters to U.S. global competitiveness and economic security. It was a sight to behold! Their conversations with congressional offices included the importance of Optional Practical Training (OPT), Duration of Status, and the Keep STEM Talent Act to help attract and retain international students, and the need for continued federal funding to sustain essential international education programs. Visit nafsa.org/takeaction to add your voice!
The word most participants used to describe their feelings after the day’s meetings concluded was “encouraged” – which is heartening to hear! Thanks to everyone who raised their hands to take part, especially the 40 percent who were new to advocacy with NAFSA, and the 60 percent who made a repeat appearance (which, when added up, means we appreciate everyone who does this work with us. And in case you’re wondering, that includes you too. 😊).
Hot on the heels of Advocacy Day was the welcome news that new bipartisan legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that would make Optional Practical Training (OPT) part of immigration law. The Keep Innovators in America Act (H.R. 8013) is a critical step forward in the effort to protect a program that we know is good for the U.S. economy, domestic workforce, and international students seeking a full academic experience in this country.
As NAFSA Executive Director and CEO, Fanta Aw noted in a U.S. for Success Coalition release: “The Optional Practical Training program is a cornerstone of the international student experience in the United States. Codifying OPT will provide certainty for students, institutions, and employers while reinforcing America’s position as a global leader in education and innovation.” The bipartisan bill was introduced by Rep. Sam Liccardo (D-CA-16), Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23), and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08).
Now let’s get some cosponsors! See below.
For more about the importance of OPT and post-employment pathways to attracting and retaining international student talent in the United States, visit the OPT Observatory, a project of the Institute for Progress. This public, comprehensive dataset shows where international students in the United States come from, where they study, and how they utilize OPT.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
And Eid Mubarak and a happy spring solstice to all!
Best,
Erica
Erica Stewart
Senior Director, Advocacy & Strategic Communications
NAFSA: Association of International Educators
