By Rick Rodriguez
I never realized what an asset it would be to learn the mainstream language of this country, nor how controversial it would become. Growing up in the 1970's, and learning the spoken language in my home (Spanish) first was normal, for me. Speaking English certainly was never considered an attribute or something special in those days. Today, however, it's a controversial subject, and while many are outspoken about the unneccesity to capture the mainstream language; I remain a proponent of learning English--the mainstream language of United States.
There are several reasons for learning and benefiting from English. Some are: employment factors, social integration, and understanding and functioning in today's society. Sure, anyone can get by in this Country with a limited understanding of the language; however, how well? I contend that to achieve and sustain the skills necessary to continue to function effectively/productively in this society learning English is imperative.
Recently, I commented on an article written by Ruben Navarette, a Harvard graduate and syndicated writer for the San Diego Union. Mr. Navarette is also the Author of A Darker Shade of Crimson, a book I've read on three occasions. I'm a great admirer of Ruben Navarette. I believe he has achieved astronomical success. He writes extensively about issues related to race, and often his work appears to offer a defense for minorities. Often, he singles out individuals that have offended, either through subterfuge or openly, minorities. In one of his recent commentaries, Mr. Navarette came to the rescue of Asians(?), over a controversial proposal by the Ladies Professional Golfer's Association (LPGA) to suspend or fine its members for their failure to learn English. I wrote to the San Ramon Valley Times to voice my opinion.
San Ramon Valley Times September 19, 2008 "Defensible" by Rick Rodriguez
"While the LPGA's proposed "English-only" policy to fine/suspend its members was publicly derided, the end result is defensible. LPGA players, and other participants in the American economy, would greatly benefit from learning the mainstream language of this country--English.
In his commentary (LPGA Sept. 11), Ruben Navarette once again comes to the defense of the minority, this time "Asians," and while some of his rhetoric makes perfect sense; most of his argument is antiquated regurgitated gibberish.
More obvious, however, is the adroit delivery of his argument. Navarette is the benefactor of a Harvard education, and now owns a position as a nationally syndicated writer achieved mainly as an "English-only" writer.
Navarette, more than others, should know the benefit and sacrifice necessary to learn and deliver exemplary communications. Perhaps, more than anything, the LPGA was attempting to address the lack of a valuable skill of its members, and the necessity of it for their continued sustenance."
Of course, my interest in this issue is chiefly related to the importance of learning English. And, while I clearly acknowledge the difficulty of it, the benefits dramatically outweigh the sacrifices! On a grander issue, I believe the issues of defending minorities weakens rather than empowers individuals. While this issue seems never to go away, I believe it's time we begin to move forward from the trappings of the past, and put this antiquated regurgitated gibberish behind us.
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