Infuriating.

In general, I avoid talking about politics in my blog. Mamma always taught me there are three things never to be discussed in mixed company: money, religion, and politics. I am passionate about two of these things (money--not so much), but manage to avoid talking about them often out of fear of alienating friends I have come to value. However, there is a political issue happening in Nashville right now that simply can't be overlooked.

I just got back from voting. I know that it's the end of January and the president is about to be inaugurated, but there is a very important referendum up for approval. Some idiot has decided that English should be the only language allowed in Nashville/Davidson County. This means that all official documents would only be available in English, and that "no person shall have a right to government services in any other language". Are you kidding me? This infuriates me for so many reasons.

There is simply no way you can decide in good conscience that people who are not fluent in English do not deserve our government services.

I have tried to understand the logic behind the amendment, and I think I get it. I agree that English should remain the primary language in America as a whole. It is OUR language, after all. However, this is completely the wrong way to go about it. It is difficult enough for non-English speakers to figure out the American ways. We do not need to compound the problem by adding another roadblock.

As a teacher, I come in contact with numerous non-English speaking students and families. These students are rapidly learning English. Their parents were able to enroll them in our school system (and provide them the opportunity to become fluent English speakers) because MNPS is allowed to provide translators in 30+ languages. Are they in our country illegally? Yes, some of them, but not all. These children are realizing the American Dream. Really. This opportunity would not be allowed to them if their parents were required to enroll them in school in English. It couldn't happen.

Can you imagine a city where our entire (very large) immigrant population was not allowed to access any services in their native language? I would argue that ratifying this amendment could be the most detrimental decision this city could make. I am picturing a city where immigrant children are wandering the streets when they should be in school. I am picturing a city where immigrant parents can't access the food stamps and government benefits they desperately need. I am picturing a city where we are going against the "Southern hospitality" that we pride ourselves on.

I have admitted that I understand, and even support, the idea behind the amendment. However, the way it's being approached is completely wrong. Let's provide free English classes to those who wish to learn our language. It's a myth that the majority of non-English speakers prefer being unable to communicate. Don't cut back on translating services. Instead, let's provide additional services to these people. Make them feel welcome and allow them the opportunities that our ancestors were allowed years ago.

America is a country built on immigrants. Anybody remember Ellis Island? Early voting is over, but the official day for voting is this coming Thursday, January 22. Please, if you haven't yet, go vote.

If you want to see the ballot, click here.