CAPAC Commemorates 50th Anniversary of Lau v. Nichols Supreme Court Decision
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tomorrow, January 21, 2024, marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark 1974 Supreme Court case Lau v. Nichols, which created the legal basis for bilingual education and language access services and expanded rights for students with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Since the decision, courts have relied on Lau v. Nichols for several language access cases, which have increased opportunities for LEP individuals nationwide. In 2020, five million public school students, including over half a million Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students, were English learners.
Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements to commemorate the anniversary:
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28):
“Over fifty years ago, young students of Chinese descent in my home state of California joined together to stand for their right to an equal public education. Their case and the resulting Supreme Court decision in their favor continues to be a significant milestone for educational equity and language access for AANHPI and immigrant communities today. As we recognize this anniversary of Lau v. Nichols, we must build upon its legacy by increasing language access across the entire federal government, so that everyone that calls America home can fully participate in public education and all areas of public life.”
CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):
“Fifty years ago, the Supreme Court recognized that language access is a civil right. In Lau v. Nichols, a group of brave Chinese American families fought for their children—and all children with limited English proficiency—to have access to supplemental English language learning in public schools. I am proud to carry on the legacy of Lau v. Nichols in my efforts to expand language access in federal programs so that all Americans may have truly equal opportunity.”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-36):
“Fifty years ago, the Supreme Court decided Lau v. Nichols, which expanded access to education for students with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Access to quality education is essential to building the American Dream, creating empowered communities, and boosting the economy. All students deserve an opportunity to succeed academically, regardless of their heritage, nation of origin, or language abilities. Lau reaffirmed our nation’s commitment to equality and justice for all, inside and outside the classroom.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):
“Today is the 50th anniversary of the Lau v. Nichols decision, a case that ensured that no student could be discriminated against because of their language ability. This landmark decision had lasting impacts on how public institutions serve people with different needs, improving how we uphold voting rights and other crucial public services for everyone. Half a century later, we continue to reaffirm the fact that all students have the right learn and be educated, regardless of which languages they are fluent in. Language access and appropriate resources for English language learners remain an issue in classrooms across the country, and we must continue fighting to make sure that every student has the opportunity to receive a meaningful education.”
Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44):
“In a landmark decision 50 years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court required federally funded school districts to take steps to address language barriers facing students with limited English proficiency. As the daughter of immigrants who represents a majority-minority district in Los Angeles County, I understand how language barriers in education can impact a student’s academic performance and overall experience. I am committed to work with my colleagues to ensure that all students have equitable opportunities for a high-quality education, regardless of their background.”
Rep. Linda Sánchez (CA-38):
“On the 50th anniversary of Lau v. Nichols, we celebrate and reflect on the progress made in providing equal education opportunities for English language learners. This important case continues to inspire our commitment to inclusive classrooms and empower every student to succeed regardless of their first language.”