After several years of continuous advocacy on Capitol Hill, we are proud to announce the formation of a Congressional Caucus dedicated solely to advancing language learning in the United States: the America's Languages Caucus!
NOW IS THE TIME TO TAKE ACTION!
Using this positive momentum, we are asking that you ask your representatives in the House and Senate to join this bipartisan effort to raise awareness about the positive benefits of multilingualism and create real policy change in Washington, DC and nationally!
FAQs - LEARN MORE!
Below are a few frequently asked questions about the Caucus. More information can be found at www.languagepolicy.org/americaslanguages
What is a Caucus?
From the Algonquian Indian language, the term Caucus means "to meet together.” Today, Members of Congress join caucuses to pursue common legislative objectives centered around a particular theme or idea.
What is the America's Languages Caucus?
The America's Languages Caucus Co-Chairs, Representatives David Price (NC) and Dong Young (AK), established the America’s Languages Caucus in November 2019 in order to develop a national strategy to raise awareness about the importance of world language learning and international education, particularly as it relates to our nation’s economic and national security.
America's Language Caucus will act as a language policy forum, allowing Members from any background or region to exchange information and ideas with colleagues and engage in direct legislative advocacy.
As part of the national strategy, Members of the caucus will work to ensure adequate resources are directed towards the study of world language learning. Members also seek to improve access for students and educators who wish to participate in these fields of study, including world languages, Native American languages, and English for English learners.
Already, there are dozens of language-related bills in the 116th Congress that advance America's Languages mission (for more information on several of these bills, visit our Newsroom).
What is the mission and significance of the Caucus?
The core of the Caucus’ mission comes from the five language policy recommendations outlined in the 2017 Congressionally-Commissioned Report on Language Learning: America’s Languages: Investing in Language Education for the 21st Century. This inclusive and representative report makes clear that the United States needs significantly more bilingual and biliterate citizens to help ensure national security, promote economic and job growth, and develop the potential of every American student.
Take action! Get involved!
Constituents can get involved by directly requesting that their Representative join the group.
Members of Congress that wish to pursue the objectives of America's Languages Caucus should contact the office of Representative David Price (nora.blalock@mail.house.gov).