Bilingüisme, identitat nacional i diversitat als Estats Units

Abstract

Language is one of the factors that contributes to the formation of national identity. In the case of the United States, it is not a decisive element (English is not the official national language). Its importance has, however, changed throughout the course of history. The United States, as a nation of immigrants, has been, from the beginning, a multiethnic and multilingual society. Although English has always been the main language, languages from all over the world have been very visible since the time the country was founded (Spanish especially so, since it is the second most important language). National identity as related to language has been an evolving phenomenon. Each ethnic group brings with it a language it is free to use, but a common language that can be used on all levels becomes necessary. National integration seems to lead to monolingualism. The first measures in this regard date from the end of the 19th century (the great waves of immigration), when English began to be associated with patriotism and being American. In the 20th century, the language integration of the new waves of immigrants became harder to accomplish. The fear of a loss of American identity lent further strength to the English-only movement. Starting with World War II, two opposing positions took shape: the bilingualists and the English-only supporters. The former based their arguments on the legislation on constitutional equality and unfamiliarity with English could lead to a lack of equal opportunity. On the other hand, English is the path to success; knowledge of English must be ensured. Both arguments, depending on the legal reading one accords them, can be interpreted as being in favor of bilingual education or English-only education. In short, a constant debate that oscillates between national identity and tolerance for diversity.