EFL--English as a First Language

One of the most overlooked parts of the immigration debate is language. What should be the national language of America? Or should there even be one?

The multiculturalists are pushing the agenda of many different languages, starting with Spanish. In Texas, one trial program has English speaking students halping Spanish speakers learn English and Vice Versa. In other words, forced bilingualism. I do not have any qualms about learning foreign lanugages--I encourage it--but not as a forced issue. In some small towns along the Rio Grande in Texas (near Mexico), the towns have petitioned to have Spanish as the official language. Having lived along the Texan-Mexican border, when one makes a phone call, often the first words one hears are Spanish, followed only by english if you force the issue (and sometimes the all too frequent "no Anglais") As many of us say (not in jest), "This is America isn't it?)

I propose the following:
1) American english should be designated (by National Law or Constitutional Amendment if necessary), the official language of the United States and its territories.
2) All official documents, signs, etc should be issued ONLY in American English. Translators should be provided for court and the judical system but not elsewhere. If a person cannot speak English, they have no business driving a vehicle in the US.
3) Abolishment of Bilingual Education in Schools. This creates a second class environment as well as inhibits the mainstreaming of the student. Rather, no student should be allowed in the mainstream classes unless they a) have proved by test their ability to read and write Americanenglish at a 6th grade level or b) take an intensive 8 hour day all summer long Intensive english course at a local school inthe district, entirely at Federal Government expense (including breakfast and lunch). This would be open to all, including adults. Having taught school and seen numerous young spanish speakers mainstreamed into classes they were overwhelmed with (smiling through the entire class period not understanding a word).
4) not allowing full citizenship until the immigrant can speak and write at 6th grade level and understand a basic comprehension of US history and culture.

I am not racist. I am not a bigot. But the national character of America as an English speaking country with English heritage must be upheld. Learning additional languages is fine but should not be required. Instead of forcing us Americans to conform to other languages and cultures.

But what about immigrants of the past. They spoke their native tongue, what is so different here? The immigrants of the previous centuries wanted to learn English as soon as possible and become assimilated quickly. The new immigrants wish to keep their languages, many refuse to assimilate, and expect us to adapt to their cultures and languages. This we cannot do nor should we.

As languages do, so do countries. Note the destructive confusion evidenced in Canada when French was forced upon the English speaking Canadians. In France, they expect you to speak French. Why shouldn't in America, you learn to speak English and accept the culture of this country.