ActionScript 3.0 :: Flash Sending Variables When Movieclip Is Clicked?

I�m trying to send variables when a movieclip is clicked and use some frames later.

Code:
function langFr(e:MouseEvent):void{
var language = "fr";
play();
}

When the button is clicked, the movie plays until frame 10, where there�s the code:

Code:
if (language == "fr"){
trace ("French")
}

but it�s not working. I imagine that because I�m creating the variable inside the function and trying to read it outside. But how can it be done?