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4/24/2025
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RIBLIA Caucus raises concern over elimination of RIC language programs
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STATE HOUSE — The Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian-American and Pacific Islander (RIBLIA) Caucus released the following statement concerning Rhode Island College’s decision to suspend language programs:
“RIBLIA stands in strong opposition to Rhode Island College’s decision to suspend its BA Program Concentrations in French, Francophone Studies, Latin American Studies, Portuguese and World Languages Education – French and Portuguese, as outlined in RIC’s recent Productivity and Efficiency Report.
“At a time when Rhode Island is home to one of the largest Portuguese-speaking communities in the United States, and when multilingualism and cultural relevance are vital to our collective future, this decision is a disservice to our students, families and the state’s workforce.
“This move fundamentally undermines Rhode Island’s commitments to inclusive education and pathways to economic mobility, especially for multilingual and immigrant communities. It is particularly troubling in the context of public education, health care and human services, where the demand for bilingual professionals is both urgent and growing. These academic pathways not only open doors for students to succeed professionally, but they also strengthen the systems that serve our communities.
“The RIBLIA Caucus urges RIC leadership to reverse course and to engage transparently and meaningfully with the General Assembly. Now is the time to invest in, not dismantle, programs that foster multilingualism and cross-cultural understanding. This year, the RIBLIA Caucus is proudly prioritizing the Bilingual, Dual Language and World Language Teachers Investment Act (2025-H 5744, 2025-S 0785).
“We join the call for collective action and invite all who believe in educational equity and global learning to stand with us in demanding the restoration — and expansion — of language programs that reflect the rich diversity of our Rhode Island communities.”
The caucus encourage community members to join the “Save Our Majors” protest being led by Rhode Island College students at the State House today, April 24, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. to speak out against these suspensions. The caucus also encourages community members to join Rep. Karen Alzate (D-Dist. 60, Pawtucket, Central Falls) at a press conference she will be hosting Tuesday, April 29, at 3 p.m. in Room 135 on the first floor of the State House.
The RIBLIA Caucus represents and advocates for the interests of people of color throughout the state of Rhode Island. Through legislative advocacy and community engagement, the RIBLIA Caucus is dedicated to building a more inclusive and representative government that reflects the diversity of Rhode Island residents.
The caucus is chaired by Sen. Tiara T. Mack (D-Dist. 6, Providence) and Rep. David Morales (D-Dist. 7, Providence).
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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