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Washington, D.C. -- Rep. Rush Holt (NJ-12) today introduced a resolution calling for the establishment of a “Year of Languages” recognition program in the United States to help highlight the need for increased foreign language education.
“If we’re serious about both protecting our country from terrorist threats and improving our competitiveness in the global market place, language education must become a top-tier priority for government at all levels,” said Holt, a former professional educator. “Establishing a ‘Year of Language’ commemoration would help focus attention on this critical national need. Proficiency in foreign languages also enriches our culture and our quality of life.”
The resolution, co-sponsored by Rep. Patrick Tiberi (R-OH), calls on the President to issue a proclamation calling on the public to encourage and support initiatives to promote and expand the study of languages, and to observe a “Year of Languages” through appropriate ceremonies, programs, and other activities.
The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages has designated 2005 as “The Year of Languages” and is promoting supporting for language training through various programs and events, including the organization’s annual meeting. More information can be found at the following website:
http://www.yearoflanguages.org/i4a/pages/Index.cfm?pageid=3591
Earlier this year, Holt introduced the National Security Language Act (H.R. 115), which is designed to promote the teaching of less-commonly taught foreign languages, including the languages of Arabic, Korean, Chinese, Pashto, Persian-Farsi, Serbian-Croatian, Japanese, Russian, Portuguese, and any other language identified by the Secretary of Education as a foreign language critical to the national security of the United States.
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