ONE Nation (with many cultures)

My goal is not to eradicate any trace of culture. Rather, I hope to embrace the great diversity of our nation and build a common bond. After all, I find myself- like so many of us- coming from a foreign background. My parents both emigrated here in hopes of a better life. Leaving a communist country, they spoke only Romanian and Hungarian- no English. However, learning the language brought new meaning to their life; if they were not compelled to speak English, it would feel just like the oppressive country they left, not a haven of freedom.  

Now, I realize America is extremely overwhelming to a foreigner, but creating a "melting pot" of sorts requires a "common culture". Just as Spain or Australia have unique backgrounds, the US also possesses a distinct qualities that allows all to participate in politics, a "gateway to American life". To establish unity among all citizens, we must first speak the same language. For example, only a handful of networks offer news in other languages; thus, many Americans are left out of the political arena. How then can we mend political divisions over gun control, fiscal policy, and international diplomacy? Without an official language for all to voice their opinions, these troubling issues will surely persist.  

Still, there are others who see this notion as "undemocratic and a threat to individual liberty" or even "racist". These claims trace back to the American Revolution when freedom was highly valued and rightfully so. I am a firm believer in diversity, so I support the expression of the cultures of this world. Gaining new insights from multiple points of view aids a country in seeking out the best possible solution to conflicts. However, just like any nation, the US must have a certain level of national pride so that all citizens care for this country and its wellbeing. Without patriotism, America becomes nothing more than a dwelling place, not a country rooted in the principles of democracy. 

I completely understand and see the reasoning behind maintaining no official language, but I think the benefits drastically outweigh the costs. If the US is to preserve its title as a beacon of hope in the world, it must first institute a language to connect the American Indian to the African American, the German-American to the Chinese- American, and the list goes on.