Official English

English Only

Official English does not mean "English only"

The term "English only" is inaccurate and does not apply to existing official English legislation.  None of the 31 states with official English laws prohibit government agencies from using other languages when there is a compelling public interest for doing so.  These include: protecting public health and safety, assuring equality before the law, promoting tourism, teaching foreign languages, providing for national defense, and many other legitimate, common sense needs.

WATCH: ProEnglish is the nation's leading
advocates of official English, not "English Only."

Having English as our official language simply means that for the government to act officially, it must communicate in English. It means the language of record is the English language, and that no one has a right to demand government services in any other language.

"Official English," not "English-Only," would also reinforce America's historic message to new immigrants - that we expect them to learn English as the first step in their assimilation -- and that we are committed to ensuring that all Americans share in the economic, social and political benefits of having a common language.