Spanish is not a foreign language in California.

Until 2016 it was illegal for public education to be taught in any language other than English across the state of California. That sounds counterintuitive, because it is. 
“Roughly 15.3 million Californians have Hispanic and/or Latino ancestry”, that’s according to Statista and Latino Policy & Politics Institute. But in 2016 Californians voted on and passed Proposition 58 that repealed prop 227, the state's 20-year-old ban on non-English education, signed into law by none other than Ronald Reagan.

Prop 227 was ignorant to California's rich cultural tapestry that encompasses a diverse linguistic heritage extending far beyond English. The historical and contemporary influence of Spanish in the state is undeniable, making it an inseparable part of California's identity. But Spanish Language is currently mandated by the state of California as a world language and not a native language that is subject to the same rigorous standards as English in public schools. This is happening at the same time that Spanish immersion education is exploding across the state to make up for all the lost time.

Hence, I advocate for the recognition of Spanish language education as more than just a component of world languages’, curriculum but as an essential native language deserving a distinct place in educational standards.

Spanish holds a pivotal role in shaping California's past, present, and future. Its roots are deeply embedded in the state's history, dating back centuries before California became part of the United States. From the Spanish missions to the establishment of cities and the contributions of Spanish-speaking communities in various sectors, the language is an intrinsic part of California's heritage. “California has the largest Spanish Speaking Population in the USA, 28%” according to Lighthouse Translations.

The genesis of California's democratic government and legal framework lies in the drafting of its first Constitution. What many may not realize is that this momentous document was originally crafted in Spanish along with English, symbolizing the integral role of the language in shaping the state's governance. Preserved to this day at the California State University at Monterey, the Official version of the constitution is in English and the Spanish is only an official “translation”. But we will leave the first pages of both versions here and let you decide for yourself which one is the translation:

Regardless of your conclusions, the Spanish version of the Constitution serves as a testament to California's diverse linguistic heritage.

Moreover, understanding the original Spanish version of California's Constitution becomes imperative for citizens seeking to comprehend the foundational principles and rights enshrined within it. Proficiency in Spanish empowers individuals to access and interpret the Constitution in its original form, allowing for a deeper understanding of the rights, laws, and democratic principles that underpin the state's governance.

By fostering proficiency in Spanish among Californian citizens, the state enables broader access to the historical and legal foundations upon which its governance is built. Access to the original Spanish version of the Constitution promotes inclusivity, empowers individuals to engage more comprehensively with their rights, and strengthens democratic participation by ensuring a more thorough understanding of the state's legal framework. “Latino students make up around 55 percent of students in California’s public schools but are the least likely to acquire a college degree.” According to Pacific Standard Magazine

Given the historical significance of Spanish in shaping California's legal and democratic foundations, educational standards should prioritize proficiency in Spanish as a means to comprehend the state's original Constitution. This proficiency not only respects the state's linguistic diversity but also ensures that all Californian citizens have an equitable opportunity to understand their rights and responsibilities as enshrined in the original composition of the Constitution.

Given the undeniable historical, cultural, and social significance of Spanish in California, educational standards should reflect this reality. Integrating Spanish language education as a distinct and valued aspect of the curriculum, alongside English, will equip students with linguistic skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world while honoring the state's heritage.

The original Spanish composition of California's Constitution stands as a testament to the language's integral role in the state's historical and legal heritage. Proficiency in Spanish becomes not just a matter of linguistic diversity but a critical tool for citizens to fully comprehend and engage with the rights enshrined in the foundational legal document, fostering a more informed and empowered citizenry.

Spanish language education should not be viewed merely as one among many world languages in California's curriculum. It holds a unique status as a native language integral to the state's history and cultural fabric. By recognizing its significance and fostering proficiency, California can better prepare its students to be informed, culturally aware, and effective global citizens.