THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, April 1, 1996 TAG: 9603290017
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A6 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 28 lines
Your front-page report (March 26) of official English described the debate as ``two conflicting sets of American values: the quest for unity through a common language vs. a tolerance of varied cultures.''
These issues are complementary rather than in conflict. In order to tolerate and value other cultures, we must have the ability to communicate and understand them. Without a common language, we become cloistered and intolerant in our ignorance. As a nation, we are blessed with more cultural diversity than most other countries could imagine. Our ability to grow peacefully can be attributed to a single common bond - a universal language.
There is no reason why we cannot require English for the functions of government and business, and yet take delight in the varied languages and cultures our citizens contribute.
RONALD A. HESS
Virginia Beach, March 26, 1996 by CNB