Federation of Tamil Sangams of North America has been demanding American authorities to introduce Tamil as second language, like French and Spanish, in schools in areas with significant Tamil population throughout the U.S. , said R.Porchezhiyan, director of the federation, here on Monday.

American Tamil Academy has taken up teaching Tamil language and culture to students in many schools. Text books have been prepared and students are taught, along with Tamil language,Thamizhisai, folk and martial arts. “Nearly 5,000 students in 45 schools are being taught by 500 volunteers,” Mr. Porchezhiyan said.

“Migrant Tamils want the younger generation to keep their roots intact . Tamil sangams were established in America 35 years ago and the federation was formed 25 years back,” he said.

The federation has been celebrating Pongal , summer festivals, Muthamizh Vizha and Vasantha Vizha. “ Leaders like R.Nallakannu and Mahendran have participated in our functions and gave lectures. We have organised talks by popular artists, writers, and political leaders, including Sivaji Ganesan and Manorama, and artistes like Thirubuvanam Athmanabhan and Narthagi Nadaraj,” he said.

American Tamils have expressed solidarity with their brethren in Sri Lanka and have expressed their views over the issue in the form of agitations. “Our agitations before the White House was one reason for the US bringing in a resolution on Sri Lanka in the United Nations,” Porchezhiyan said.

Mr.Porchezhiyan expressed concern over introduction of English in government schools. The federation will organise a conference on Purananooru in October, he said.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Tiruchirapalli / by Special Correspondent / Thanjavur – July 23rd, 2013