This special report presents the resolution on language adopted by members of the Conference on College Composition and Communication in April 1974, and the background statement explaining and supporting the resolution. The statement includes answers to some of the questions the resolution might raise, such as: What is meant by dialect? Why and how do dialects differ? How do we acquire our dialects? Why do some dialects have more prestige than others? Does dialect affect the ability to read and write? Does dialect limit the ability to think? What do we do about standardized tests? and What sort of knowledge about language do English teachers need? A bibliography of 129 entries on the subject of students' right to their own language is also included. (SW)