Advocacy News and Announcements
Our Mission and Core Values
As an organization, our mission is “To serve as a leading organization in Arizona for English language professionals at all levels to network, advocate, and develop professionally”. The executive order “Designating English as the Official Language of The United States” undermines everything we stand for.
Our Response to the Executive Order
The recent Executive Order issued on March 1, 2025, which designates English as the official language of the United States, is deeply concerning. This order rescinds the August 11, 2000, Executive Order: Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency.
AZTESOL firmly opposes this measure and believes it undermines the values we stand for as educators, advocates, and supporters of multilingual communities.
Official Statement From AZTESOL
Arizona Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages Statement on the Executive Order Designating English as the Official Language of the United States
AZTESOL opposes the U.S. Presidential Executive Order issued on March 1, 2025. As an organization committed to the educational and emotional development of multilingual learners of English, we view this order as harmful and regressive. It threatens access to equitable learning opportunities and erodes the inclusive, multilingual foundation essential to our communities.
Linguistic Diversity and Arizona’s Heritage
While Arizona does legally designate English as the official language of the state, AZTESOL acknowledges the rich linguistic history that predates English in this region. Indigenous languages, Spanish, and languages spoken by immigrant communities have long been part of Arizona’s cultural fabric.
AZTESOL stands in solidarity with the speakers of these languages—regardless of immigration status—and affirms their right to exist, thrive, and contribute to our society.
The Importance of Valuing Home Languages
Decades of educational research confirm that:
AZTESOL rejects English-only models—such as those endorsed under Proposition 203—and continues to advocate for high-quality, bilingual education that supports the whole child.
Upholding Language Rights and Cultural Identity
AZTESOL asserts that all individuals have the inherent right to their:
This is not only an educational belief, but a fundamental human rights issue. Respecting and protecting linguistic diversity strengthens communities, preserves heritage, and empowers individuals.
Harmful Implications of the Executive Order
The March 1, 2025, Executive Order represents more than a policy change. It reinforces harmful ideologies that:
AZTESOL recognizes the potential long-term damage this order could cause—not only to learners, but to the fabric of our state and nation.
In Solidarity With Language Rights Organizations
AZTESOL proudly aligns itself with organizations advocating for language rights and multilingual education. We support the vital work of English language educators and urge our community to explore these partner organizations and their positions.
Links to these organizations and their position statements are provided below.