The Pros And Cons Of English Plus Resolution

Issues regarding language policies in the United States have become widespread after former Senator Samuel I. Hayakawa unsuccessfully proposed a constitutional amendment to declare English as the official national language to Congress in 1981. This was done to improve the efficiency of communication in society and symphonize the diversity of America’s society. Since there are hundreds of various languages spoken in America, passing this Official-English legislation would be the unifying force for all citizens. Although this law was not enacted, the strive for Official-English continued to manifest itself through the Bill Emerson English Language Empowerment Act of 1996 and the English Language Unity Act of 2005, both which also failed. Hence, it is evident that the push for making English the official language of the United States is growing despite multiple failed attempts. Potential reasons …show more content…
For example, since Associated Press (2012), one of the largest nonprofit news organizations in America, found that complaints about workplace discrimination based on mainly language ability rose by 76 percent from 1997 to 2011, this implies that the presence of institutionalized racism is still prevalent in society. However, passing the English-Plus Resolution is a step toward diminishing this problem because it is in respect to the First Amendment and allows the opportunity to exercise the freedom of speech in a positive manner by recognizing the cultural, social, and economic advantages of multilingualism. Hence, making English the official language of the United States would ultimately lead to a safer society and