The King's Language

Colonial America followed the British policy of keeping all documents in duplicate, both in English (the language of the people) and German (used for all state business). The American revolutionaries decided this was unnecessary when the use of German was defeated in convention. In a country of many people and tongues, English was chosen to unify the newborn nation. In this sense English has always been our official language.

But to now force English-only policy through the legislature is divisive and regressive. How can we look at countries imploding over ethnic diversity with reproach when we try to install similar xenophobic policies here at home? The very basis for English as our national language is rooted in the needs of the nation. The founding conventions created a statute, not for English-only policy, but for the defense against aristocratic government.

Those who wish to learn English should have every opportunity to do so. But force by will of law should be the last resort in all circumstances.

We are certainly a nation of immigrants and a nation of liberty, which from its inception has fought for the true freedom of mankind -- not to legislate the scope of our nation's diversity. We are also a nation comprised mainly of English speakers, and to be an American is to combine cultural heritage with a certain amount of conformity (there can be no progress without unity).

Laws that dictate cultural progress and define cultural identity would be naturally exclusive and unconstitutional. Those without English skills will learn the value of conformity on their own.