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The official language of the U.S. is English. Should citizens of the U.S., who have another language as their first language, have a requirement to take on English as their first language? For example, a family from Spain come to the U.S. to live here. However, the entire family speaks Spanish. Should they be required to learn English and use it in public places (i.e. the work place, school (unless taking a foreign language course), etc.)?
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Sarah02 |
06:57pm Mar 19, 2002 EST |
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I think you might be a little misinformed...the US has no official language, though English is the de facto official language. I don't belief that anyone should be required to learn English. But, over time immigrants to this country will learn some English. My mom is an adult ESL so I know that many of her students are taking classes so that they can get a better job. Basically all of the good jobs require English and to function in most of the US they will have to learn English eventually. It should be a gradual process rather than something required of all immigrants or citizens.
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Lindsay |
07:20pm Mar 19, 2002 EST |
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I respect your thoughts about English not being pushed on people, but personally disagree. I think that English should be a requirement. I hate it when I go somewhere and people are speaking in a different language. What they speak in their home is their business, but when in public if they are going to live in the United States I believe they should be required to speak English. In order for our society to continue running as it is now, it is important that all citizens speak English. I think it is only fair and right. Even if English is not officially our language (which I had never heard before) it is the most popular and what tradition says. I think therefore, it should be made a requirement for anyone wishing to gain citizenship.
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