The Joint National Committee for Languages and the National Council for Languages and International Studies (JNCL-NCLIS) opposes the Executive Order declaring English as the official language of the United States and urges the administration to rescind it. This action could threaten critical language education initiatives, could limit access to essential government services, and could weaken the nation’s ability to compete globally.
As part of our mission to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to learn English and at least one other language, we advocate for policies that expand—not restrict—language education and access. Language skills are vital for national security, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement. Policies that limit multilingual communication create barriers for businesses, military readiness, intelligence operations, and international trade. Additionally, restricting language access undermines federally mandated programs that support English language learners and essential workforce training in sectors such as healthcare, defense, and international relations.
This Executive Order also disregards the more than 150 Indigenous languages spoken across the United States, many of which are federally recognized and protected as essential parts of our nation’s history and cultural heritage. These languages are not relics of the past but living, evolving means of communication for communities that have shaped—and continue to shape—our country. Any policy that marginalizes these languages contradicts long-standing federal commitments to their preservation and revitalization.
While the Executive Order claims that establishing English as the official language will promote unity and streamline communication, it fails to acknowledge that multilingualism has long been a defining characteristic of American society. The order's revocation of Executive Order 13166, which required federal agencies to provide language assistance to non-English speakers, risks alienating millions of residents who contribute to our economy and communities.​
We urge all Executive Branch agencies to continue providing services as they have been, as these are essential for protecting the health and well-being of America’s multilingual residents.