President Donald Trump signed an executive order designating
English as the official language of the United States, marking an unprecedented
move at the federal level, as the country has never before had an official
language established by such a presidential decree. The measure is part of the
administration's agenda to promote a common language in government institutions
and strengthen what it considers national unity.
The order establishes English as the official language of
the federal government and revokes a directive issued in 2000 that required
agencies and recipients of federal funds to expand access to services for
people with limited English proficiency. However, the decree also states that
government agencies may continue to offer documents and services in other
languages when they deem it necessary to fulfill their functions.
The White House defended the decision, stating that having
an official language promotes the integration of new citizens, facilitates
communication between the government and the public, and contributes to
strengthening social cohesion. He also argued that learning English expands
opportunities for civic participation and economic development for those who
come to the country.