US President Donald Trump has designated English as the official US
language in an executive order signed on Saturday.(1 Mar ’25) The order repealed the former US President Bill
Clinton's executive action that improved access to services for people with
limited English proficiency.
The executive order issued by Trump states,
"From the founding of our Republic, English has been used as our national
language. Our Nation's historic governing documents, including the Declaration
of Independence and the Constitution, have all been written in English." "It is therefore long past time that
English is declared as the official language of the United States. A nationally
designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and
the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas
in one shared language," it added.
According to the
order, establishing English as the official language will not only streamline
communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more
cohesive and efficient society. The order has been issued to promote unity, cultivate a shared American
culture for all citizens, ensure consistency in government operations, and
create a pathway to civic engagement.
The order states, "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 recognizes and celebrates the long tradition of
multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it to their
children for generations to come," it added.
According to the order, US Attorney General Pamela
Bondi shall rescind any policy guidance documents issued pursuant to Executive
Order 13166 and provide updated guidance, consistent with applicable law.