Language Advocacy in a Globalized and Multilingual World: Perspectives from French in the US

This article will examine French language advocacy in the US within the context of language learning, language advocacy, and multilingualism in the US and in an interconnected and globalized world. While it is known that language skills and cultural knowledge are needed more than ever, the number of students studying a language other than English in the US is well below that in many other countries. In addition, language enrollment has significantly declined in recent years at the college and university level, and programs at all levels face serious challenges. In addition, many students in the US do not have the opportunity to study an additional or heritage language. This article examines the current status and future of French and the role of French language advocacy in defending French language and Francophone culture in the US and in ensuring its future through the lens of qualitative research. Framed by theory and best practices in language advocacy, the following examples of the language advocacy experience provide reflective insight and inspiration for language educators, advocates, stakeholders, and supporters. Implications include both the future of the US in a multilingual world and the future of French in the US and North America. Future research needs include multidisciplinary research across the disciplines in linguistics, language education, and beyond.