Vietnamese Language Recognized in San Francisco: A Milestone for the Vietnamese Community

On June 11, 2024, the San Francisco City and County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution to use Vietnamese in public services, including interpretation, announcements, and website documents, in addition to English, Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino.

At the Flag Raising Ceremony to celebrate Vietnam’s National Day at San Francisco City Hall, a proclamation was signed by the mayor of San Francisco, announcing September 2, 2024, as Vietnam – US Friendship Heritage Day in the city and county of San Francisco in 2024.

This milestone demonstrates the strong integration of the Vietnamese community in San Francisco and is a significant achievement for the NVNONN community.

The Importance of Vietnamese Language Recognition

Recognized as one of the official languages in San Francisco, Vietnamese is not only a means of communication for the Vietnamese community but also a way for the community to have a voice in local economic, cultural, and political activities.

This recognition facilitates the maintenance and promotion of the Vietnamese language and the preservation of Vietnamese cultural identity in the community, allowing the young generation of Vietnamese born abroad to learn and use their mother tongue, maintaining their connection to their roots and national culture.

Cultural and Educational Exchanges

The recognition of Vietnamese in San Francisco can facilitate the expansion of cultural and educational exchanges and cooperation between Vietnam and the United States, enhancing understanding and cooperation between the two countries and promoting the image and position of Vietnam in the world.

The Role of Vietnamese Language “Ambassadors”

Volunteer teachers play an extremely important role in maintaining and promoting the Vietnamese language in Vietnamese communities around the world.

They are not only language teachers but also key factors in preserving and transmitting Vietnamese cultural identity to the younger generation born and raised abroad and to international friends.

These “Vietnamese language ambassadors” help learners understand more clearly about their roots through their mother tongue, as learning Vietnamese is not just about learning a language, but also about absorbing the traditions and customs of the homeland.

Teachers act as inspirations, igniting and spreading love for Vietnamese in the community, making it easier for learners to love and stick with the language.

Building a Sustainable Community

The existence and development of a sustainable community depend on maintaining the original language and culture.

These “Vietnamese ambassadors” have contributed to building the foundation for the NVNONN community through preserving and promoting the Vietnamese language, helping the younger generation stay connected to their roots and creating conditions for stronger bonds among community members.

Their dedication and sense of responsibility towards the community and the country are a great source of encouragement for NVNONN in maintaining the Vietnamese language in the international environment.