President Donald Trump has officially declared English the United States’ official language. He has signed an executive order designating English as the nation’s official language. The order aims to promote national unity, streamline government operations, and encourage civic engagement among all citizens.
According to the executive order, English has historically served as the nation’s common language, dating back to the country’s founding documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The order states that a nationally designated language is essential for maintaining a cohesive society.
“In 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 executive order reads.
The administration argues that speaking English not only opens economic opportunities but also helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and contribute to society. “This order recognizes and celebrates the long tradition of multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it on to their children for generations to come,” the order states.
One of the most significant changes introduced by the order is the revocation of Executive Order 13166, issued in 2000, which sought to improve access to federal services for individuals with limited English proficiency. The Attorney General has been tasked with rescinding any policy guidance documents issued under Executive Order 13166 and providing updated guidance consistent with applicable law.
While supporters argue that a unified language policy will enhance efficiency and strengthen national identity, critics contend that it could create barriers for immigrants and non-English-speaking communities seeking essential services. Advocacy groups have voiced opposition, warning that the order could reduce accessibility to government resources. As the order takes effect, its impact on federal agencies, local governments, and immigrant communities remains uncertain.
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This change could affect millions of Americans who rely on government programs and services. The decision comes as over 67 million U.S. residents speak a language other than English at home, according to census data. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 22% of the population speaks a language other than English at home—a figure that has steadily risen for decades due to immigration from Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
Among these communities, the Nepali-speaking population has also faced significant challenges. Almost half of Nepalis in the United States struggle with English proficiency, according to a study by the Pew Research Center. Data from the American Community Survey (IPUMS) reveals that only 51% of Nepali residents in the U.S. ages five and older are proficient in English. This means nearly half (49%) face difficulties with English in their daily lives.
The study also highlights a significant gap between U.S.-born Nepalis and those who immigrated. While 85% of U.S.-born Nepalis report speaking English proficiently, the rate drops to just 48% for foreign-born Nepalis. This disparity suggests that many Nepali immigrants face language barriers upon arrival in the United States. The proficiency rate dips even lower for adults, falling to only 47%.
On Friday, three New York Congressmembers strongly opposed President Donald Trump’s executive order, calling it a discriminatory move that undermines the rights of immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency.
In a joint statement, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), and Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-09) criticized the executive order, stating that it is “a thinly veiled attempt to allow federal agencies to discriminate against immigrants and individuals with limited English proficiency.” These lawmakers represent districts with significant immigrant populations—such as Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn—where multilingual communities have long thrived and contributed to New York’s cultural and economic fabric.
The lawmakers warned that the order could make it significantly harder for seniors, non-native English speakers, and working-class immigrants to access essential services such as Social Security, Medicare, and other federal benefits. “What happens when a senior with limited English proficiency needs help accessing their earned Social Security benefits? Or when a non-native English speaker needs help enrolling in Medicare?” the statement questioned.
They emphasized that while English remains the nation’s de facto language, the United States has always been a multilingual society—a legacy dating back to the colonial era when Dutch, Spanish, French, and dozens of Indigenous languages coexisted alongside English. “People who speak a language other than English are just as American as those who do. That has been true since the founding of our country. We will not let President Trump change this fact,” the lawmakers asserted.
The Tri-Caucus leaders vowed to challenge the executive order and “fight to protect Americans’ right to access federal services in any language.”
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
