"Language and international education are clearly
in the public and national interest. Knowledge of
other languages increases intellectual abilities and
provides a window of understanding to other customs
and cultures.......
Only with language competence can Americans hope to
conduct effective trade policy, expand international
trade, ensure the integrity of national defense,
enhance international communication, and develop a
truly broad-based education for all citizens."
Reprinted with permission from the
mission statement of the Joint National Committee for
Languages (JNCL) and the National Council for
Languages and International Studies
