President Donald Trump has signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the United States.
This historic move marks the first time the country has had an official language. The order allows federal agencies and organizations receiving federal funds to decide whether to continue offering services and documents in languages other than English.
The decision aims to streamline communication, reinforce national values, and create a more cohesive society. The executive order also emphasizes the importance of learning English for new Americans to achieve the American dream and engage in their communities.
What is outlined in the order?
“In welcoming new Americans, a policy of encouraging the learning and adoption of our national language will make the United States a shared home and empower new citizens to achieve the American dream. Speaking English not only opens doors economically, but it helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society”.This order honors and celebrates the generations of multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it down to their children
Embracing Diversity: The U.S. Approach to Official Language Policy
Throughout its history, the United States has never designated an official national language, despite English being the most commonly spoken. This decision reflects the nation’s commitment to embracing its diverse and multicultural population, which includes speakers of numerous languages.
The U.S. has traditionally valued this linguistic diversity, finding no pressing need to impose a single official language. In addition, several states have their own recognized languages, such as Hawaii, which acknowledges both English and Hawaiian, and Alaska, which recognizes English alongside 20 indigenous languages.
Source | White House & Inputs from First Post