Embracing the Bilingual Advantage: A Superpower Often Overlooked

"The best time to learn a language was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." --Lingholic

In a world that thrives on global connectivity, being bilingual and multilingual is akin to possessing a superpower—an ability to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and navigate diverse cultures. As someone fluent in Spanish, English, and Italian, and with a grasp of Japanese, French, and German at varying levels*, I often find myself reflecting on the unique experience of being multilingual, particularly in the context of the United States.

In the U.S., where monolingualism is common, there's a paradox: despite society valuing multilingualism, bilingual individuals often feel self-conscious about their language skills. This contrasts with Europe, where multilingualism is celebrated. The U.S. Census Bureau notes that 21.6% of Americans speak a language other than English at home. According to Eurostat, 74.6% of Europeans can speak at least one additional language, meaning they are considered bilingual to some degree, with significant variations between countries; particularly in the Nordic regions where bilingualism is more prevalent.? The Hart-Celler Act of 1965 significantly boosted bilingualism in the U.S., with a 260% increase over the past 50 years, highlighting a growing appreciation for bilingualism—perhaps resulting in a boost to celebrating linguistic diversity.

The business and societal benefits of being multilingual cannot be overstated. In an interconnected global economy, professionals who can navigate and communicate across language barriers hold a distinct advantage. The ability to speak multiple languages fosters cross-cultural collaboration, promotes international business relationships, and opens doors to a myriad of opportunities. Unfortunately, this advantage is not always as valued in the U.S., perpetuating a cycle of self-consciousness among those with multilingual abilities.

This sentiment is particularly evident in the Latino community, where bilingualism is often downplayed rather than celebrated. In the U.S., bilingual Latinos may feel hesitant to highlight their language skills, missing out on opportunities to leverage their unique capabilities. Initiatives like the Seal of Biliteracy, a commendable recognition of students' bilingual proficiency in states where it is offered, play a crucial role in reversing this trend. Such programs not only validate linguistic skills but also contribute to a shift in societal perceptions, affirming that bilingualism is indeed a superpower.

Dual language programs and an increased number of certified bilingual education teachers are economic assets for the nation. They not only empower individuals with the skills to thrive in a multilingual world but also contribute to the nation's competitiveness on the global stage. The recent declaration by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona that "Being Bilingual is a Superpower" is a positive step forward. This initiative, led by the Office of English Language Acquisition, signals a recognition of the inherent value of multilingualism in shaping a brighter future for the United States.

Let us embrace and celebrate the multilingual advantage. By doing so, we not only empower individuals to unlock their full potential but also position the United States as a leader on the world stage. In a world where connectivity is key, multilingualism is not just a skill; it's a superpower that has the potential to propel us toward a more inclusive, understanding, and prosperous future.

Cultural Keys: How Languages Shaped My Life

My journey into the realm of multilingualism began growing up in La Paz, Bolivia, in South America, where I was nurtured by a cultural tapestry rich in diversity since it is the seat of government and where all the embassies are based, which exposed me to friends from many parts of the world like my first Japanese friend I used to hang out with in my early teenage years. Who would have known that later after college I would study Japanese for four years as soon as I landed my first professional job with a major Japanese bank. In addition, from a young age, my grandparents, wise custodians of tradition, instilled in me the belief that languages were the keys to unlocking boundless opportunities. Their encouragement, rooted in the belief that linguistic diversity was an asset, became a guiding principle in my life--my grandmother signed me up to take German lessons at the Goethe-Institut when I was in middle school. The School I attended for 12 years--Colegio La Salle, echoed this sentiment, fostering an environment that celebrated linguistic exploration--we had to take English and French. From elementary years through high school, the emphasis on learning languages was not just an academic pursuit but a cultural inheritance and a testament to the interconnectedness of our global community at La Salle. As a young adult I fell in love with Italian and pursued learning it to achieve fluency and later Japanese to connect professionally. I now realize that the early exposure and encouragement to learn languages set the stage for a lifelong journey into language acquisition, shaping not only my abilities but also my perspective on the immense value of multilingualism in fostering understanding and unity. For this I am thankful.

Brain Gains: The Cognitive Benefits of Language Learning

Learning languages is a cognitive workout for the brain, offering numerous benefits. It enhances memory as it requires storing and recalling vast amounts of information, such as vocabulary and grammar rules. Additionally, language learning engages multiple regions of the brain, fostering improved problem-solving skills and enhancing overall cognitive function. Studies suggest that bilingualism may even delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline. Beyond the mental advantages, acquiring a new language opens doors to diverse cultures, promoting a broader perspective and enriching one's personal and professional life. In essence, the value of learning languages extends far beyond communication; it's a holistic exercise for the mind.

See resources:

How To Identify and List Levels of Fluency on Your Resume

Popularity of the 20 most spoken languages by monthly search volumes by the online tool Keyword Finder

Bilingualism in Europe by Eurostat