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General discussion

Press 1 for English

by Mac McMullen Jul 2, 2007 12:32PM PDT

While I totally agree with many that English should be the primary and recognized language of the United States of America, I also believe it admirable of those who are fluent in another language, in addition to English. Pidgin counts if in Hawaii.

I also find it regrettable that too often cultural heritages suffer as younger generations come along, and fail to learn and use the language of older generations.

At times even my English comes into question as to fluency, and I have no fear of being able to get along in a total immersion environment in at least two other countries where English would be considered a second language.

Having said that, and in line with all the rabble rousing about immigration, here is a cute rendition and take off on Press 1 for English:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEJfS1v-fU0

Discussion is locked

3 Posts

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I've noticed lately

by Diana Former Forum moderator Jul 3, 2007 12:40AM PDT

Some places simply say in Spanish to press 2 for Spanish so English is the default.

Diana

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(NT) I enjoyed that one

by lylesg Jul 3, 2007 3:53AM PDT

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Well said, Mac.

by Angeline Booher Jul 3, 2007 8:11AM PDT

IMO, most people do not believe that what defines a culture should be abandoned. They enrich our country,

I had one fellow student who spoke her native language, as well as English. So she opted to take the language in high school. What surprised her was she found it much harder to write the language in which she was fluent.

I also think it is a good idea for our students to study a foreign language. Not only is it an excellent exercise for our gray cells, but would be more fun when traveling overseas.

We have a large population here of Korean, Vietnamese and Cambodian immigrants. Hard workers all. I don't know if they punch "2" if they have access to their native language. regardless, they have mastered enough English to serve their customers.

Angeline
Speakeasy Moderator

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