English as the official language sparks concerns among immigrant communities

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order designating English as the official language of the United States.

The White House announced on March 1 that, for the first time in U.S. history, English has been officially recognized as the national language.
While more than 30 states have already adopted English as their official language, no such designation had previously existed at the federal level.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 78% of Americans speak only English at home, while the remaining population primarily uses other languages.

The implementation of this executive order is raising concerns within immigrant communities, including the Korean-American community, due to its potential impact on non-English speakers.

Reversal of Clinton-era Executive Order

As part of the new directive, President Trump has also rescinded an executive order signed by former President Bill Clinton in 2000, which required federal agencies to ensure that language barriers did not prevent individuals from accessing government services.

However, the new order clarifies that agency heads are not required to discontinue translation services or the provision of non-English documents.

Growing Concerns Among Immigrants

Trump’s push to designate English as the official language aligns with his long-standing campaign rhetoric. The executive order comes amid broader policies, including the removal of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and intensified crackdowns on undocumented immigrants.

Critics warn that requiring English as the sole language for government communications could create difficulties for immigrants who rely on multilingual resources.

Currently, federal agencies provide public information in multiple languages under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which mandates equal access to federally funded programs regardless of race or national origin.

Immigrant advocacy groups are expressing strong concerns. They argue that, had critical information—such as pandemic-related assistance—been exclusively available in English, it could have disproportionately affected non-English-speaking taxpayers who are entitled to equal rights and benefits.

Federal Agencies Vary in Language Support

Currently, the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture offer information on their websites and press releases in both English and Spanish.

In contrast, the Department of Defense and the Department of Health and Human Services do not consistently provide Spanish translations. Each agency operates under different budgetary constraints and policies regarding multilingual services.

While the executive order does not explicitly mandate the discontinuation of existing translation services, concerns are growing that it may lead to a gradual reduction in multilingual support.

Impact on Korean-American Communities

California, home to a large Korean-American population, recognizes English as its official language but mandates translations in the nine most commonly spoken foreign languages.

Additionally, counties must provide multilingual resources when a linguistic group makes up at least 2% of the population. The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s Office currently offers election materials in 13 languages to ensure accessibility for non-English-speaking voters.

Public Backlash and Debate

The White House’s decision has sparked immediate reactions from the public. A Facebook post by NBC News on February 28 regarding the executive order had garnered over 16,000 comments as of the afternoon of March 2.

Some questioned the necessity of the order, arguing, “English is already the de facto official language—why make it official now?” Others criticized the administration’s priorities, stating, “The real issue is not language, but lowering food and gas prices.”

Advocacy Groups Raise Concerns

Immigrant rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation, fearing that the executive order may further delay the expansion of translation services that are already lacking across federal agencies.

Jeff Lee, an official at the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles, pointed out, “Aside from a few key documents, such as green card application forms, most federal paperwork is available only in English.

While previously translated materials may remain intact, the process of translating new documents could slow significantly.” He also warned that budget cuts could further hinder translation efforts.

Thomas Baek, a resident of Long Beach, voiced additional concerns, stating, “Elderly individuals and those new to the U.S. can currently take the citizenship test with an interpreter. I’m worried this policy change might affect such accommodations.”

By Brian Choi     [ichoi@koreadaily.com]