As an international association that recognizes and values cultural and linguistic diversity, TESOL encourages the recognition and appreciation of all varieties of English, including dialects, creoles, and World Englishes; recognizes the desirability of bi- and multidialectism, as well as bi- and multilingualism; promotes discussion and information dissemination regarding language varieties; advocates for dialect-fair assessment instruments and placement for students; and views positively the development of curricula that encourage awareness of language variation.
This statement was approved by the TESOL Board of Directors in October 1996.