Why would speaking the same language cause people to form a closer
relationship? *

Because if you speak in same language you'll understand what does you peer is saying for example, you need help with a homework and if you don't know English, you can't communicate with your classmate or teacher but if you do, you can easily communicate with them. Your language helps you to express your feelings to other and if everyone speak the same language people can communicate easily and comfortably which cause people to form a closer  relationship.

i heard they are taking it off i hope this isn't true but otherwise if it doesn't get taken off it will probably be in early december or early january of 2018-2019