A new executive order declares English as the official language of America, and asserts this “Will not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society.” However, from an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, this policy will likely be deeply harmful. Language is more than just a tool for communication. It shapes identity, belonging, and social connection. When people are forced to abandon their primary language or are excluded because of language barriers, it can create stress, social isolation, and a sense of disconnection from the broader community.
Policies like this often claim to promote unity or efficiency, but in reality, they serve to exclude and marginalize certain groups. Such exclusion disrupts the fundamental need for connection and belonging, essential for individual and collective well-being.
If the goal were truly integration and cohesion, the approach would be one of inclusion, providing more language access, multilingual resources, and support for non-English speakers rather than restricting them. Instead, this policy creates an “in-group” and an “out-group,” reinforcing social hierarchies and power imbalances.
Given the broader context of increasing nationalist and exclusionary policies, it’s reasonable to suspect that this is not just an oversight but a deliberate strategy to marginalize certain populations, making it harder for them to fully participate in society. This aligns with patterns seen in other systems of control; barriers are put in place under the guise of order or unity, but the real effect is disempowerment.
IPNB highlights how relationships and cultural contexts shape brain development and mental health. Policies that marginalize non-English speakers can undermine social cohesion, increase stress, and harm overall well-being. Instead of fostering unity, such a policy could deepen divisions and create unnecessary barriers for people who contribute to society in countless ways. A truly healthy and inclusive society would recognize the importance of linguistic diversity and create pathways for connection rather than exclusion.
While a common language can facilitate communication, it’s essential to recognize and value the diverse linguistic backgrounds that contribute to the nation’s richness.
IPNB emphasizes that our interpersonal relationships and cultural contexts play pivotal roles in brain development and mental well-being. Policies that may marginalize non-English speakers could affect their sense of belonging and integration, potentially affecting mental health and community engagement.
A policy intended for collective well-being would balance the promotion of a common language with the appreciation and support of linguistic diversity to foster a healthy, inclusive society.
This post includes content generated by ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI. The AI-generated content has been reviewed and edited for accuracy and relevance.
