Thread: Every immigrant who comes here should be required within five years to learn English

I think one should be able, especially when trying to become a citizen of a particular nation, to speak and use the common language of that nation to a functional level within a certain amount of time. Icedog, it is apparent to me that your grandfather to his credit did this. Perhaps he did not speak any at home, and maybe he only knew enough to perform his job, but he was at least functional enough to work for GE. Right? Fluency may or may not come later, but there is no excuse for not putting the effort to become functional in the language. Otherwise where is the evidence one really WANTS to become a citizen, rather than just reap whatever benefits/escape some other nation he or she feels is worse....? Citizenship should be granted only to those who truly desire it, and not those who merely find it convenient or perhaps profitable. Honestly, I believe there are even naturally born citizens who based on their loyalties, should not be-but that is not the law.
Anyone attempting to be naturalized needs to convince the new country of his or her loyalty to, ability to function within, and allegiance to the new country, as it is not always a common thing to give up one's birth nation. It isn't a decision that should be taken lightly, IMHO.

John P.

I have to say I'm an outsider in this, but I think people should learn English when living in the states. English is not hard to learn as a second language.

I'm a French Canadian. Of course my English is not perfect; I sometimes make dumb mistakes, some words I simply don't know even if some kids know them, and my verb tenses are sometimes just wrong. But I can understand people and people can understand me. With daily practice, one can come with a really good English in maybe 2-3 years. Some will learn faster, some slower. I think 5 years to learn English isn't exagerated.

But I still am ****ed when I see people who lived in Quebec for generations and can't even say "Bonjour" or "Merci" right (Hello and thanks).

The title looks rather familiar Where have I seen that before?

Icedog, Your Grandpa was a credit to your family and to this nation! I am also glad he wasn't deported!

I know this is going to be a really hot topic. My grandmother immigrated to the US after WWII from Germany. She states that in order to become a citizen she had to learn english and pass a written test in english. There was more of a pride of becoming a citizen back in the day, and people worked hard to contribute.

IMVHO todays society in America in general is all about...what can this country do for me...because im entitled, rather than...I need to work hard to get ahead. The English thing for me is frustrating as well...being a healthcare worker..seeing so many that get a free ride on our tax dollar...who DEMAND people to speak their tongue..while living in America and not even attempting to speak the language that is providing them with so much.

ok, somebody name our official language! quick!

Wait, we don't have one.

Originally Posted by Nickelking

ok, somebody name our official language! quick!

Wait, we don't have one.

While we dont have an official language....it is understood that English is the primary language spoken in the states. Heck...the quote is by a former president of the united states.

True, as JMS said in chat we do have a traditional language. I'm just saying no legislation could be passed until congress approves a native language; So the point is moot.

I teach undergrad lab in a Major US university, you will be amazed how poor the writing and speaking skills of today's American youth is..
I agree on another hand that everyone needs to know a decent level of written and spoken English. For example the majority of Chinese students that come here have nonexisting English language skills, I wonder how they get good grades on their language tests TOEFL, GRE etc