Speech #1040254163

This debate. however. is about more than simply the cost in dollars. Fur the past three decades we have come to realize that wellmeaning programs intended to help have actually evolved into programs that hinder the advancement of our citizens. In this case. costly bilingual policies have acted as a disincentive to some immigrants who have been encouraged to use their native languages rather than learn English. The problem again is not that the Government has done too littleit is that the Government is doing too much. In this case. the Governments actions are inhibiting the social and economic advancement of new immigrants. . Throughout this Nations history. we have opened our ports to immigrants from countries across the globe. and each generation of immigrants has understood the importance of learning to communicate in English. New immigrants continue to understand that the knowledge of a common language will propel them along the road to prosperity and will unite all immigrants with a common bond as Americans. Unfortunately. this Government is impeding their integration into American society. This legislation will facilitate the opportunities for nonEnglish speaking persons in this country. and I disagree with the argument that this bill would isolate them from society. It is the failure to promote English as our common and unifying language that has hindered some Americans from building a solid future for their families and gaining access to the American dream. During a meeting with a group of businessmen I asked a gentleman who had immigrated to the United States why his community has achieved such great educational and professional accomplishments in this country. and he proudly responded that there were two reasons for this success in the United Statesintact families and the adoption of the English language. It is becoming painfully clear that those who have not adopted the English language have had a much more difficult time achieving success in our schools. in our businesses. and In our society. For those who use English. we have seen a great rise in achievement.