Thread: NC - Cabarrus says English is official language

http://www.charlotte.com/mld/observer/n ... 522990.htm

Posted on Tue, Jan. 23, 2007

Cabarrus says English is official language
Proposal that singled out Hispanics set aside
VICTORIA CHERRIE
vcherrie@charlotteobserver.com

The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 Monday night to declare English as the official language of Cabarrus County.

The resolution, introduced by Commissioner Joni Juba, says "the use of a common language will remove barriers of misunderstanding and promote civic participation of all its population regardless of national origin, creed, race or other cultural diversity."

Commissioner Jay White voted against it, saying it was a "feel good" resolution with no substance.

Juba's resolution trumped the one Commissioner Coy Privette tried unsuccessfully to get approved last month and was to present to the board tonight.

His declared all Hispanic Cabarrus residents should learn English. But its wording posed problems with state and federal laws that require certain agencies such as the elections board and social services to provide resources in Spanish.

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