After the fall of Saigon in 1975, many South Vietnamese refugees sought safety and a fresh start in the United States. Initially, around 125,000 were evacuated, followed by over 800,000 who fled in the subsequent years. By 2017, many had made the U.S. their home.
Settling in this new land brought its own set of challenges, particularly language barriers. My family, part of the wave of refugees escaping the dangers posed by the Viet Cong, was among those fortunate enough to receive support to start anew. I find myself thankful for the opportunities America provided us.
However, we faced the reality of adapting to complex systems, navigating unfamiliar schools and job markets that demanded a good command of English. For us, mastering the language became essential to feeling a sense of belonging and embracing the American identity.
This past July 4th, my family officially earned the title of “American.”
Yet, it seems that not all immigrant groups today prioritize learning English. A recent survey indicated that 46% of undocumented immigrants report not engaging with the language at all. It’s crucial that this changes, and I appreciate that President Trump is addressing this issue.
On March 1, 2025, Trump signed Executive Order 14224, which designates English as the official language of the United States. While the U.S. has never formalized a federal language, English serves as a de facto language for government, education, and business, providing necessary structure. Critics may claim that an official language is exclusionary, but I believe it actually empowers newcomers seeking freedom and opportunity. Learning English can help forge connections with neighbors and deepen pride in our American identity.
The executive order aims to evaluate the costs associated with federal language services, but establishing an official language is vital for restoring American unity, especially in a divided society. It’s important to take further actions at state and local levels, particularly in workplaces and schools, to ensure the spirit of this order is effectively implemented.
Language policy is not just about the words we use; it’s about fostering communication and paving a way to American citizenship. For refugees like my family from South Vietnam, it’s about survival, dignity, and a chance to start anew. In this complex world, knowing the language of your new home not only serves practical needs but can also be quite freeing. I commend President Trump for his efforts to promote unity, build a collective national identity, and help everyone identify as Americans.
