Hispanics say yes to English as official language

Backing up Nashville Councilman Eric Crafton's recent efforts to follow Tennessee state law makers and declare English the official language for doing government business is a new study conducted by Zogby.

Nearly two-thirds of Hispanic adults living in the United States favor making English the official language of the United States, according to a new poll from Zogby International. The survey found that the majority of Hispanics want the federal government to conduct business overwhelmingly in English, including majorities of those not born on U.S. soil. The survey of 903 Hispanic adults was conducted Nov. 17-20, and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percent.

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The Zogby poll found widespread support for making English the official language among all subgroups, including Democrats, Republicans and Independents. More than three-in-four immigrants to the United States favored the legislation, as did nearly 60 percent of first-generation and 70 percent of second-generation Americans. Majority support was also noted across all income groups, age levels and education levels. Hispanics of Mexican descent, who made up more than half of those surveyed, approved of official English legislation at a near 70 percent rate. US Newswire

And quoted in the Washington Times:

"As an immigrant to the U.S., I am not surprised by the strong support for official English among Hispanics," said Mr. Mujica, who came here from Chile in 1965. "The majority of immigrants understand that coming to a new country means learning the language of that country. While individuals are free to speak the language of their choice, they cannot expect the government to provide information in every foreign language."

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Though 160 members of Congress recently supported H.R. 997, the English Language Unity act, which would make English the official national language, local governments are increasingly calling the shots in their own regions. Towns and counties in Maryland, Nevada, Texas, Arizona, Pennsylvania and California are among those passing English language referendums. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners in Georgia votes today on their own measure, which also includes a proposal to fine landlords who rent to illegal aliens.

This study is certainly interesting news shedding new light on allegations of racism toward anyone supporting this officially English effort. These newcomer to America don't consider it "unfriendly" or racist to enact these laws. They understand language is unifying and an important part of assimilation into their new country.

America used to be considered a melting pot but every time a group refuses to 'melt' we fragment our society and become more Balkanized. When that happens we cease to become the America most of these immigrants wanted to be a part of. I understand this. These survey respondents understand this. CM Crafton understands this. Why don't those who make a living advocating for immigrants not understand this?

Don't go wobbly, CM Crafton. You're on the right track.