Opinion: Cuts to language education programs jeopardize our government and society
A 2020 survey revealed that nearly 60% of Americans support increasing funding for foreign language education, underscoring public concern and the importance of these initiatives. Yet, despite widespread support, we are witnessing an alarming trend: funding cuts to language programs across the country. As a professor who has spent the last decade teaching in this field, I have seen this erosion firsthand. Over the past two years, these cuts have accelerated at an unprecedented pace.
The decision to reduce funding for language education programs in the United States is both shortsighted and counterproductive. These programs are not merely academic luxuries but strategic investments in our national security, economic competitiveness and cultural understanding.
In 2023, West Virginia University made drastic cuts to its world languages department, eliminating nearly three-quarters of its faculty positions and discontinuing all foreign-language majors. This is not an isolated case. In 2024, congressional budget reductions led to the U.S. Department of Defense withdrawing funding from nearly 40% of its language flagship programs nationwide, the majority of which were programs hosted at institutions in the southwestern United States, including the Chinese and Arabic Flagship programs at my home institution of BYU. These programs were designed to guide students toward professional-level proficiency in languages critical to U.S. national security. Cutting these programs undermines their mission and weakens our nation's linguistic capabilities.
At the state level, the picture is similarly bleak. In Utah, for instance, the Legislature recently considered defunding the state's world-renowned Dual Language Immersion program. This program has been celebrated for fostering bilingualism and biliteracy in young learners. Fortunately, the program was ultimately funded, but it's something that should never have been put into question.
These closures and funding cuts ignore the immense and wide-ranging benefits of second-language education. Second-language learning is not just a personal enrichment tool — it is a strategic asset for the government and society as a whole. Students who study a second language develop meaningful connections with the cultures and communities associated with their target language. They gain a deeper understanding of language's critical role in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration in a globalized world. These students are better equipped to thrive in an interconnected society.
Moreover, second-language education cultivates essential competencies such as communication, critical thinking and cultural navigation — skills that are vital for building a competitive workforce. Employers increasingly value individuals who can navigate diverse cultural settings and collaborate effectively across borders.
Programs like the Language Flagship were initially established in response to the heightened need for language and cultural expertise following the September 11th terrorist attacks. Today, the importance of language and cultural proficiency has only grown. Addressing global challenges, whether in diplomacy, national security or business, requires individuals who can communicate and collaborate across cultural boundaries.
While some may argue that advances in artificial intelligence (AI) can fill the gap left by funding cuts, this assumption is misguided. AI tools cannot replicate the deep understanding of cultural nuance or the human connection that comes with learning a second language. Relying solely on AI is not a sufficient replacement for the expertise and empathy cultivated through language education.
The continued cuts to language education programs reflect a misalignment with our national values and priorities. These reductions jeopardize our ability to address pressing global issues and weaken our national security. Congress must recognize the critical importance of second-language education and allocate funding that ensures these programs can serve our nation effectively in the long term.
Reducing funding for language education programs is penny-wise but pound-foolish. These programs are an investment in our future — one that we cannot afford to neglect.
I urge readers to advocate for strengthening our language programs. Support local administrative and political candidates who understand the critical importance of these programs. You can write to your local representatives, support school board candidates who prioritize language programs and participate in community initiatives that promote bilingual education. Together, we can ensure a future where language education remains a priority and a cornerstone of our national strength.
I am not an official spokesperson for BYU and am not authorized to speak on behalf of the university. My thoughts and comments are my own and do not reflect university policy.
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