This large family lived in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, bordered on all sides by India, except for a small border with Burma. Bangladesh is among the most densely populated countries in the world and has a high poverty rate. This country has suffered from extensive corruption, disorder and political violence.
In 1990, Tajul’s older sister was brought to America by her new husband, and after six years of living here, became an American citizen. She then applied for the immigration of her parents and siblings. In 1996, when Tajul had just completed high school, he received his letter of confirmation that would allow him to come to America after a three year waiting period. In the meantime, to support himself in Bangladesh, he started a business selling TVs, refrigerators, and electronics. Just when his three-year waiting period drew to a close, the Twin Towers were demolished on 9/11 and all immigration from Bangladesh ground to a halt for the next five years.
In 2006, he received his second confirmation letter, and six months later, he received an interview and visa. His married sister living in Bangladesh, Parvin, her husband and two children, also received visas.
In July of 2008, Tajul finally arrived in Bedford, MA. His first job was at Brugger's Bagels but he soon moved to a better job at Whole Foods, where he currently works. He spends two hours every day reading and working on his English vocabulary. He has also signed up for an ESL (English as a Second Language) class at the Bedford Learning Connection. His hopes are to learn English well enough to attend Middlesex Community College to become an engineer.
Parvin has always been a homemaker. Adjusting to America has not been overly difficult, but she and her family have been surprised at the increased auto traffic and the high prices of goods. She too signed up for our ESL class so that she can keep pace with her two children, who are 10 and 16.
In the Bedford School ESL system, there are currently 42 foreign-born children from 11 different countries. Many of them have parents and extended family who speak little or no English. The Bedford Learning Connection is starting its first ESL course for adults this winter. We will work, in conjunction with, the Bedford School Department to offer a range of courses for adults, including writing skills for foreign-born professionals.
Since students are often at different levels and from different countries, there is a real need for volunteers to assist the ESL instructors in the classroom. If you have an interest in volunteering to help in this program, please contact Mary Mady.
