Trump signs an executive order making English the official U.S. language
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Saturday signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the U.S., the first time in American history such a designation has been made.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Saturday signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the U.S., the first time in American history such a designation has been made.
"From the founding of our Republic, English has been used as our national language," the order reads. "It is therefore long past time that English is declared as the official language of the United States."
Trump's order marks the first time in history the country has had an official language, though the majority of U.S. states have already designated English as their official language.
People who go through the naturalization process to become U.S. citizens are also required to take an English test in which they "must demonstrate an understanding of the English language, including the ability to read, write, and speak basic English," according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Trump's order states that designating English as the country's official language will further "empower" new citizens and aid them in assimilating.
"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," the order states.
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