Sacramento - Assemblymember Betty Karnette's (D-Long Beach) measure to recognize 2005 as the Year of Languages was approved by the Legislature and chaptered by the Secretary of State. Assembly Concurrent Resolution 17 (Chapter 26 of 2005), encourages all educational communities to celebrate languages and cultures and urges citizens to support quality language and cultural programs for pupils of California schools.

"The diversity of California is one of its greatest assets. It benefits all of us to share in other cultures and languages. One of the most important tools we can give to children and all California residents is the knowledge of multiple languages," stated Karnette.

The ability to communicate in multiple languages is a tremendous benefit to a workforce that frequently deals in an international marketplace. Many employers are in great need of employees that speak a variety of languages. Assembly Concurrent Resolution 17 is sponsored by the California Language Teachers Association and urges the public to recognize the value of providing world languages as part of the curriculum in schools.

The California State PTA supported ACR 17 and states in their letter of support, "PTA members recognize that students need special skills in foreign language and cultural diversity for them to become productive citizens in the 21st Century's global society." Assembly Concurrent Resolution 17 was approved unanimously by both the California State Assembly and Senate.