Posted by
JP on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 11:08:20 AM
by Burt
Prelutsky [scriptwriter] 2/25/08
For
a long time, there has been a controversy brewing in America over
whether or not to make English our official language. The arguments in
favor seem overwhelmingly compelling to me. Doesn’t it seem absurd
that when so many people living in foreign countries see obvious
advantages in learning English, that millions of those who actually
reside here, who make their livings and raise their children here, and
who vote in our elections, can neither read nor write the language?
Yet,
most Democratic politicians and even some Republicans balk at the
idea. All this time, I have assumed that their objection was
predicated on their fear of being labeled racists, and worried that it
might cost them votes in future elections. But I am beginning to
wonder if their reluctance isn’t based on the fact that for so many of
those in public life, basic English skills are simply beyond them. [more]