Quotes
Speaking English not only opens doors economically but also helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society,
Trump said
A nationally designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas in one shared language,
the document states
Nothing in this order [...] requires or directs any change in the services provided by any agency,
the executive order statesIn welcoming new Americans, a policy of encouraging the learning and adoption of our national language will make the United States a shared home and empower new citizens to achieve the American dream,
the order also states
Establishing English as the official language will not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society,
according to the order
This isn't just an offensive gesture that sticks a thumb in the eye of millions of US citizens who speak other languages, but also will directly harm those who have previously relied on language assistance for vital information,
Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America's Voice, an advocacy group for immigration reform, said in an email
This executive order, while framed as promoting unity, risks dismantling critical supports like ESL programs and multilingual resources that help immigrants adapt and contribute,
Carrillo saidTrump is trying to send the message that if you're not white, rich and speak English you don't belong here,
Mendoza saidIt will make it harder for them to participate civically and vote, as well as access critical healthcare, economic and education resources,
the group said in a statementThere will be no statehood without assimilation, and Puerto Ricans will never surrender our identity. For those of us who seek a union with the U.S. without assimilation, ... there is only one alternative: maintaining and strengthening the current Commonwealth relationship.”
Hernández said
As we have said many times, any legislation around #PuertoRico's status must make crystal clear whether a statehood scenario will continue to allow -OR NOT- Puerto Ricans to fully operate our govt, schools, courts -our way of life- in Spanish."
In an X post reacting to Trump’s upcoming order, the organization wroteThe statehood movement has always been clear. Turning Puerto Rico into a state is not about ceasing to be who we are,
said Rodríguez, who's also the chairman of the Puerto Rico Democratic Party and a member of the pro-statehood New Progressive Party
We’re a nation that speaks English.”
During his 2015 presidential run, he criticised Republican rival Jeb Bush for speaking another language on the campaign trail, stating at a news conference in New York
A national language strengthens the fabric of our society, empowering citizens old and new,
the document said
It is long past time English is recognized as the official language of the United States,
the document said