“Hola”, “Salve” and “Bonjour” are all ways to say “hello.” These languages are taught at Green Hope most students take Spanish, followed by French and then those few who take Latin.
Out of the 50 states that are currently in the country, 32 of them already have English as their official language. The first state that decided to establish English as their official language was Nebraska. In 1920 84% of Nebraskans voted in favor of a constitutional amendment that would make English the official language. The amendment stated that all official proceedings, records and publications shall be written in English. It also made it where public, private, denominational and parochial schools had to teach in English. Since then many states have joined in making English their official language. Three states have multiple official languages: Alaska has English as well as several native Alaskan languages, Hawaii has English as well as Hawaiian and South Dakota has English and Sioux.
On Mar. 1 2025, President Donald Trump established English as the official language of the United States in the executive order, “Designating English as the Official Language of The United States.” President Trump started off this executive order by explaining the history of English as the Country’s national language. He cited that the nation’s founding documents, Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were all written in English. President Trump states that establishing an official language will lead to a unified and cohesive society.
Making English the official language of the United States will, “… not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society,” President Trump wrote. Not only does it create this more homogeneous culture it will also provide economic opportunities, ensure consistency in government and make civic engagement easier, President Trump believes.
According to Pew Research Center, 72% of the country’s adults surveyed in August of 2024 believe that the United States should make English the official language of the United States. On top of establishing English as the official language of the United States, President Trump also revoked the executive order entitled, “Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency,” which Former President Bill Clinton decreed in August of 2000. The order that President Trump signed does not require or direct any changes to the services provided by the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) agency.
While this won’t force government agencies into complying it doesn’t require them to do it. Now it is up to the agency heads to make these decisions, “as they deem necessary to fulfill their respective agencies’ mission and efficiently provide Government services to the American people,” President Trump said.
The LEP formerly required agencies and federally funded organizations to provide language assistance to people who have limited proficiency in English. These resources that are provided can range from paperwork in their native language to an interpreter that helps them communicate with others.
America is commonly known as a “melting pot,” showcasing its collaboration of ideas from diverse backgrounds. However, in recent years diversity has become a topic of debate. This is exemplified in the Trump Administrations signing of executive orders that impact diversity equity and inclusion within the United States.
This executive order further highlights the growing divide between unity and diversity in the country. Diversity has become a cornerstone of both American politics and culture. The impacts of this executive order may have positive or negative impacts, time will tell which one it is. For now America as a whole has to grapple with inclusivity of languages or pushing for a more unified and cohesive society. But for now “Adios,” “Vale” and “Au revoir.”
