As America approaches its 250th birthday, there is a unique proposal on the horizon that aims to make history by declaring “American” as the official language of the land. This bold idea emerges from a thoughtful piece written by Rob Lockwood, a former adviser to Interior Secretary Doug Bergam. Lockwood suggests that on this monumental anniversary, President Trump and Congress should seize the opportunity to cement a lasting legacy by redefining our language identity. The concept isn’t just about words, but rather a celebration of America’s journey and assertion of independence.
As Lockwood points out, even after conquering the world in countless ways over the last two and a half centuries, we still cling to English—the language of the monarchy we fought to escape. There’s a certain irony there, isn’t it? We’ve made significant strides as a nation, yet our linguistic label remains tethered to our colonial past. Isn’t it time to break free from the old world’s grasp and embrace our unique American evolution in every possible way?
The proposal to adopt American as the official language isn’t just a fleeting idea or symbolic gesture. Unlike parades or festivals that come and go, a change in our national language would be permanent—a standing testament to our national identity. Lockwood cleverly ties this proposal to the array of spectacular events planned by President Trump for the 250th birthday celebrations. From an Army parade in DC to Mount Rushmore fireworks and even a UFC octagon on the White House lawn, the festivities are set to be unparalleled. Yet, amid the grandeur, establishing American as the official language would outshine them all by its lasting significance.
In his op-ed, Lockwood draws on the thoughts of influential American figures like Thomas Jefferson and Theodore Roosevelt, highlighting that the notion of a national language is far from new. It’s a subject that has been championed by great minds through the ages. Noah Webster himself, the dictionary maestro, once highlighted the need for America to develop its own linguistic identity. After all, if our governance is uniquely American, why shouldn’t our language reflect the same distinction?
So, as the celebrations for America’s 250th birthday approach, the proposal to officially introduce “speaking American” is not only timely but essential. Embracing this change would honor our past and guide our future, ensuring that the language we speak aligns with the principles of freedom and individuality that define the United States. Perhaps it’s indeed time for America to stand up and own its linguistic identity, boldly and proudly, as it has done with every other aspect of its sovereign journey.
