Multilingualism: “Do you speak Spanish?” I often ask when I assume someone might, but I rarely finish the question before they firmly reply: No! That makes me wonder how they understood what I asked in Spanish.
Many acknowledge that even if they speak Spanish—despite not being native speakers—they’re either not allowed to or feel ashamed to do so.
I’ve always said there’s no need to regret or be ashamed of one’s roots.
Every nation, every culture, has unique and diverse traits that contribute to the global order and human understanding. No one chooses their origin or where they’re born.
That’s why we must recognize there’s no single race, no superior culture, or universal language—only countries that are more economically developed. But that shouldn’t diminish the cultural ties each person has to their roots.
Though circumstances aren’t ideal for celebrations right now, we couldn’t let Hispanic Heritage Month pass unnoticed, as it ends next week.
Among the many facts highlighting Hispanics’ contributions and legacy in the country, one stands out: in the United States, one in five households is of Hispanic origin, whether through ancestry or migration.
Additionally, according to a report by the Cervantes Institute that gained global attention, in 2024 over 57 million people spoke Spanish in the country, making the U.S. the second-largest Spanish-speaking nation in the world after Mexico and surpassing my native Colombia, which has nearly 53 million inhabitants.
The report not only showed that Spanish will continue to expand but also that it remains one of the most essential languages for international relations.
That’s why its inclusion in bilingual and multilingual programs in this country must be strengthened.
While debates continue and the recognition of Hispanic heritage fades in declarations of English as the official language—which is more than obvious and logical—what should be promoted is multilingualism, given the number of languages brought to the country through migration.
Language, like cultural traditions, should never be a barrier or a reason for discord, discrimination, mockery, or exclusion.
I’m part of one of those proudly Hispanic households where new generations—children and grandchildren—have the advantage of being genetically wired to speak English as a native language while also easily speaking Spanish due to their heritage, giving them a competitive edge in the future.
I’ll never tire of repeating that respect for differences is the foundation of any attempt at human understanding.
We must respect and speak the language of the country that welcomes us without forgetting or stopping the promotion of our native language. Multiculturalism is one of this country’s greatest strengths, and if leveraged properly, it can lead to coexistence without so many divisions and conflicts.
By Omaira Martínez Cardona – Colombian Journalist
oma66co@gmail.com
