ENGLISH IN IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES
Keywords:
English language, immigrant communities, language acquisition, integration, bilingualism, identity, language shift, heritage language, social inclusion, linguistic diversity, language policy, acculturation, second language learning, cultural preservation.Abstract
This article explores the multifaceted role of the English language in immigrant communities, focusing on its dual function as both a bridge to integration and a barrier to inclusion. As a global lingua franca, English plays a critical role in enabling immigrants to access education, employment, healthcare, and other public services in English-speaking countries. However, the process of acquiring and using English is not without its challenges. The article examines sociolinguistic dynamics such as language loss, intergenerational language gaps, and identity negotiation. It highlights how English proficiency can empower immigrants by enhancing their participation in society, while also noting the psychological and cultural costs that may come with language shift and assimilation. Drawing on sociolinguistic theory and real-world community experiences, this paper emphasizes the importance of balanced language policies and the preservation of multilingual identities. The discussion underlines that supporting immigrants in acquiring English must go hand in hand with respecting and maintaining their linguistic heritage, ultimately fostering more inclusive and culturally rich societies
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