Governments play a crucial role in promoting and supporting the use of languages through various policies and initiatives. These actions are aimed at fostering linguistic diversity, enhancing cultural understanding, and ensuring that citizens have access to education and services in their native or preferred languages. Here are some key roles and actions that governments take to promote languages:
Governments often support the preservation and revitalization of indigenous and minority languages. This includes funding language preservation centers, instructional programs, and cultural studies to ensure these languages are not lost. The Biden-Harris Administration has released a 10-year national plan to support native language preservation.
4. Legislation and Funding
Legislation is a powerful tool for promoting languages. Governments pass laws that require the use of certain languages in official capacities, such as in government documents, education, and public services. Additionally, they allocate funds to support language programs and initiatives. For example, Rep. Jimmy Panetta introduced legislation to establish the first K-12 world language and dual language education grants program in over 14 years.
5. Cultural and Linguistic Competency Programs
Governments promote cultural and linguistic competency among public servants and educators to better serve diverse populations. This includes training programs that help professionals understand and respect different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, thereby improving service delivery and communication.
6. International Collaboration and Exchange Programs