The Importance of Becoming Bilingual
In a Changing Demographic Environment

Over the past few decades The United States has seen a drastic rise in
the Hispanic population. The United States is more diverse than ever
and according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the nation's Hispanic population rose by 58 percent in the past decade, making it the fastest growing minority group. The 2000 Census showed that the Hispanic population in the U.S. climbed to about 13 percent or over 35 million people in 2000, from nine percent a decade earlier.

According to the race and Hispanic-origin estimates, Hispanics accounted for 3.5 million, or fully one-half, of the population increase of 6.9 million for the nation since April 1, 2000. Assuming current trends continue, the Bureau of the Census projects that these groups will account for almost half of the U.S. population by 2050 and that by the same year Spanish will tie or replace English as the most commonly spoken language in the United States.

Though in past decades speaking a foreign language or being bilingual was looked upon by some as a luxury of sorts, in today's changing demographic society the ability to speak another language is rapidly ceasing to be a luxury and, in many instances has become a necessity. Due to the diverse nature of today's professional, consumer, educational, and societal cultures, businesses and individuals alike are quickly learning to embrace and reflect diversity or quickly become phased out by those who are.

Whether for professional, personal, travel, or enjoyment purposes, learning a foreign language is a wise investment in personal self edification as well as professional advancement as we rapidly approach a future that will almost certainly require it.