Trump’s Order that Designates English as an Official Language Worries Activists but Not Chicago Schools

President Trump Signs Executive Order

After President Donald Trump signed an executive order that designates English as the official language of the United States, activists and defense groups are alarmed by what this will mean for those who do not speak English in terms of immigration, access to voters, and other issues.

The order, which was signed on Saturday, will allow government agencies and organizations that receive federal funds to choose if they continue to offer documents and services in languages other than English, according to an information sheet.

Concerns from Activists and Organizations

Some activists and organizations think that the measure is just another form of the president to fan the flames of division and fear.

“This is not just an offensive gesture that puts the finger in the eye of millions of US citizens who speak other languages, but will also directly harm those who have previously depended on linguistic assistance to obtain vital information,” said Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America’s Voice, a group of defense of migratory reform, to the Associated Press in an email.

Chicago Schools Unaffected

In Illinois, schools are an area where many services that are not in English are given. But Illinois and Chicago’s education officials said they do not expect any impact from the order.

“Neuroscience and much investigation demonstrate the benefits of speaking several languages,” said state education superintendent Tony Sanders in a statement. “We will continue to improve opportunities for students to enter different cultures and acquire fluidity in several languages, including English.”

“State and federal laws still require public schools to provide language acquisition services to students who learn English. The most effective program model for students who learn English is still instruction in two languages,” he added.

A spokesman for Public Schools in Chicago (CPS) said: “The district is proud to interact with families and school communities in nine different languages and provides with pleasure programs to those who have a limited domain of English.

“This executive order does not change that. The district will continue to support all students, families, and members of the school community, regardless of their native or preferred language. ”

Concerns from Cook County Commissioner

Cook County Commissioner, Josina Morita, who represents District 13, where she says that more than 100 languages are spoken at home, described the “heartbreaking” order.

He said he believes that Cook County “will continue with its commitment to access to language. My concern is that many other places in Illinois and throughout the country where populations that need information in different languages will no longer receive it. ”

Morita, who organized the first access summit to the county language last December, stressed that there are many agencies and organizations that receive federal funds that no longer comply with the federal law that requires translation services. The executive order, he said, will even mean less access to immigrant communities.

What Does it Mean to Have an Official Language?

According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (Idea), an official language is what the Government uses to carry out its daily official activities. Having one or more official languages can help define the character of a nation and the cultural identity of those who live in it.

States that Have English as an Official Language

More than 30 states, from California to New Hampshire, as well as the Virgin Islands of the United States, have already approved laws that designate English as their official language, according to US English. Hawai is the only state that has declared two official languages, English and Hawaiian.

Conclusion

The executive order designating English as the official language of the United States has sparked concerns from activists and organizations, but Chicago schools do not expect any impact. While some argue that this measure will promote unity and efficiency, others believe it will lead to division and exclusion.

FAQs

Q: What does it mean to have an official language?

A: According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (Idea), an official language is what the Government uses to carry out its daily official activities.

Q: Which states have English as an official language?

A: More than 30 states, from California to New Hampshire, as well as the Virgin Islands of the United States, have already approved laws that designate English as their official language.

Q: How many languages are spoken in the United States?

A: According to the United States Census Office, more than 350 languages are currently spoken in the United States.

Q: What is the impact of the executive order on schools?

A: Chicago schools do not expect any impact from the order, and will continue to provide language acquisition services to students who learn English.