Governments and Businesses Move to Enforce Official Languages

What do Italy, a small auto parts business in Belgium, and a tiny village in Illinois, have in common? All three have made recent moves to declare an official language. In late March, legislators in Italy voted to amend its constitution to establish Italian as the country's official language. HP Pelzer has ruled that employees will speak only Dutch during business hours and on lunch breaks. Likewise, the small village of Hampshire in northeastern Illinois made English its official language by a unanimous vote last week.

The decisions highlight a controversy that exists around the world. In many areas, cultural differences hinder communication efforts. More governments and businesses are recognizing the need for a common language among the diverse groups. Various countries and communities around the world have taken measures to resolve the issue while some continue to debate. Others are just beginning to examine it.

The United States is on the have-not list. Many heated discussions have occurred in recent years over making English America's official language. Since the founding of the nation, politicians have not been able to come to an agreement. Political pressure from immigrant groups tops the list of reasons. Arguments for and against heard in America are the same around the world.

It is always difficult to find a political balance when dealing with different ethnicities. In some areas, tensions over differences erupt into violence. Other times, politicians are fearful of backlash. The result is that many countries are without solutions as the cultural gaps widen.

HP Pelzer decided not to wait for politicians. It points out that employees need a common language when working side-by-side with other cultures. The administration feels that this rule is in the best interest of both the company and the employees citing safety as the number one reason.

In Hampshire, politicians did take a stand. Citizens voiced disapproval of having to spend tax dollars for translation services. The council heard their concerns and took action. The move did not satisfy everyone, though. The measure contains loopholes that make exceptions for complying with federal law, and during times of emergencies or health crisis. Critics say that this is a result of anti-immigration views around the country.

PBS has an article on their website titled "Official American." In it, one linguistics expert, Betty Bimer, says, "Not only is English firmly established in America, no language has ever held as strong a position in the world today." The internet is abuzz with communities debating whether the USA should adopt English as an official language. Both sides have presented valid arguments. What do you think?