Salem -- HB 2459 was introduced Wednesday by Oregon State Representative Donna Nelson (R-McMinnville) on the House floor, that would make English the official language of Oregon.
The purpose of the bill if passed would not require state, city, and county governments to provide services or information such as voters’ pamphlets in any other language other than English.
“Oregon should follow the lead of such other progressive states as California and Massachusetts that have enacted similar laws,” Representative Nelson said.
America is the greatest and most successful experiment regarding the integration and assimilation of people of differing cultures, languages and religions,” said Jim Ludwick, the director of Oregonians For Immigration Reform
Critics of the plan site the lack of opportunity for people to learn English, citing reduced federal funding and a long six months to a year waiting list for adult ESL.
According to a recent U.S. Census report, there are 138 languages spoken in the state of Oregon. Other states which have passed English only requirements include Arizona, California, and Massachusetts
hat tip to Daniel for bringing this to our attention--
A community or nation has to have a commonality to survive, language is one of those commonalities. English has been the common language in the United States for more than 200 years, however, that is starting to change.
In my opinion, is very frustrating to look at a job posting in which you are 100% qualified to do except for a new trend that is developing... "Spanish-speaking preferred"
On a sidenote, the State of Oregon pays 5% extra if you speak Spanish.
2 comments:
It is a requirement for citizenship, speaking English, and most cities have classes for FREE taught by volunteers. There is no excuse for anyone in this country not to know English. Those opposed are probably not up for re-election. (in other words, they don't care)
Democracy is a negotiation. Clear communication is an essential prerequisite. Multiple languages in public discourse invites miscommunication.
Native-born Americans have achieved zero population growth, and it is unlikely that they can increase their gluttonous level of consumption. But the Holy Grail for "the economy" (i.e. capitalism) is continual growth.
So what will supply that growth? Immigration. Once you understand that, all of the support in Washington for the invasion of illegal immigrants makes sense.
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