Final answer:
Translators in public services are often in short supply, making bilingualism essential for immigrants in America, especially concerning access to health and legal services. The ability to speak multiple languages is a significant asset professionally and culturally. Preservation of linguistic diversity and bilingual education play an important role in the integration and success of immigrants.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the main difficulties that immigrants face when they arrive in America is the language barrier. While public offices and hospitals may provide translators, in cities where many different languages are spoken, these translators are often in short supply. Therefore, it is crucial for immigrants to be accompanied by someone who speaks their language during such engagements for effective communication and to navigate through legal and medical encounters smoothly.
Understanding the importance of language in a global society extends beyond immediate practicalities. People who speak multiple languages can greatly enhance their professional and social opportunities. For instance, having proficiency in another language is vital in fields like medicine and law enforcement, where being bilingual can be the key to providing essential services to diverse communities.
Moreover, as the United States is a melting pot of cultures with many immigrants eventually becoming fluent in English, bilingual education is crucial for helping immigrants and their children transition while maintaining their cultural heritage. Additionally, the abandonment of indigenous languages due to colonialism and the need for speaking dominant languages for better opportunities underlines the ongoing challenges faced by linguistic diversity.