Editorial / Opinion
Article Launched:10/12/2006 05:29:01 PM EDT
Updated On: 10/12/2006
Author: Jane Lonnqvist - -

In reply to this week's question about English being made our National language, there can be little doubt that this has to happen.
While I realize other cultures may have much to offer, including language, it's time to face reality.

To become a country in which the people can't communicate with one another when such a situation can be prevented is ridiculous.

The ability to communicate impacts all aspects of life. As a former teacher, I know how difficult it is to educate when some students understand little of what is being said.

This is an obvious observation, but seems to be forgotten when the language issue is brought up. Not speaking or understanding English impacts the education of not only the student(s) in a classroom who can't understand, but the extra time taken to work with them takes time away from other students. Everyone loses.

Being a nation of immigrants is often emphasized. We are just that. However, I don't think there was a teacher who translated English into Italian for my grandparents when they arrived from Italy.

In fact, schools often changed the names of immigrant children and "Americanized" them! My grandparents had a goal to become Americans. Part of that goal was to learn the language so they could be part of their new country.

They, as many others who immigrated here throughout the years, became bilingual quickly. To not accept the culture of this country, including the English language, is to not accept being part of America. Living in America is a choice.

For those who wish to hold on to all aspects of their culture and not learn to communicate with Americans, the vast majority of whom speak English, there is good news. There are many other places in the world where they can live.

People are not held here against their will. They have the freedom to leave.