WHEREAS, the importance of focusing the attention of the Commonwealth of Virginia on the social benefits of studying foreign languages and cultures will positively influence the full range of language programs taught in schools across the Commonwealth; and

          WHEREAS, studying foreign languages has been shown to contribute to increased cognitive skills, academic performance, and a greater understanding of others by providing life-long learning opportunities for people beyond school age; and

          WHEREAS, proficiency in several languages enhances careers and provides employers with a workforce that is well equipped to compete in the international marketplace; and

          WHEREAS, developing skills in a new language fosters personal and intellectual growth in students while contributing to economic prosperity, national security, and world stability; and

          WHEREAS, language educators are urging the public to recognize the value of delivering a better education to our students as well as to expand the cultural and literary horizons for adult citizens;

          NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mark R. Warner, do hereby recognize 2005 as THE YEAR OF LANGUAGES in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.