Fargo immigration leaders say language barriers persist for driver’s license tests

FARGO — Immigration leaders in Fargo say language barriers continue to prevent many immigrants from getting a driver’s license in North Dakota.

Fargo’s Human Rights Commission chair said it is one of the most common issues for people who speak English as a second language.

The executive director of the Immigrant Development Center in Moorhead said the group offers services to help people take their permit test but added the issue requires more advocacy.

"They want to work, they want to be part of the society. They want to be contributing members of the society, but without a driver's license, they can't get a job," said Sekou Sirleaf, chair of the Fargo Human Rights Commission.

At its meeting Thursday, Oct. 16, the commission also discussed language barriers for New Americans enrolled