Week 5 Writing Assignment

 Many people are surprised to learn that the United States has no official language. As one of the major centers of commerce and trade, and a major English-speaking country, many assume that English is the country's official language. But despite efforts over the years, the United States has no official language. Several significant political leaders argue for this issue rather than against it, for they claim that knowing how to speak English is the key to success in America. For instance Theodore Roosevelt was quoted as saying that “….We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...",(Arthor, Unknown http://alex-researchpaper.blogspot.com/2008/03/pros-and-cons.html, March 17, 2008)  some may agree with what President Roosevelt felt about this matter, however many often times disagree with him, arguing instead that, “Having an official language would, in fact, cover up cultural identity as well as discourage immigrants whose native tongue is not English.”

            On one hand, making English the official language of the United States, would save companies millions of dollars each year, by having to only print materials relevant to their company in a single language, rather than having to translate the information into several different languages. Think about it, how many times a day have you looked at a yogurt container, or cereal box, and noticed that is the information not only printed in English, but also in Spanish or another language? While this may hold true, you also have persons who believe that “English only” laws are politically incorrect and baised against immigrants to our country.

            On the other hand, there are still millions of people believe that multiple languages spoken throughout the country makes it interesting, diplomatic, and worldly. An imperative question that one must ask themself about whether or not to make English the official language of the United States is that; ”Isn't it better to learn and become familiar with languages other than one's own rather than know only one language your whole life?” It should be recognizable that different languages and cultures bring a uniqueness to our country. This particular controversy is simply a heated topic discussed within the government, however, it does nothing to solve the real conflicts that go on within our country.

            I personally am on the side that says we shouldn’t make English the official language of the United States. While it is estimated that over 80 percent of American families primarily speak English (Author,Unknown http://www.nccp.org/publications/pub_948.html June 2010)  we can’t at this moment say that it would be better for everyone in the country. I feel that one of the reason we have the vast amount of immigrants we do, is because we are known for being culturally diverse and welcoming of the new languages and ethnicities that often arrive here.

Author, Unknown, http://alex-researchpaper.blogspot.com/2008/03/pros-and-cons.html March 17,2008

Aralani, Yumiko,  http://www.nccp.org/publications/pub_948.html, June 2010