In Iowa, a restrictive law was enacted that prohibited conversations in any language other than English in schools, churches, and even on the telephone. This legislation prompted significant protests from the community, particularly concerning the impact on religious services conducted in native languages. The law illustrated a broader trend of enforcing English supremacy during that era.

Governor William L. Harding dismissed the protests, stating that prayers offered in any language besides English were futile, as he believed God only listened to English speakers. This attitude reflected the intolerance and cultural oppression experienced by non-English speaking communities in the early 20th century, demonstrating a lack of respect for linguistic diversity and religious expression.