I got a reply to a NumbersUSA fax I sent to my Senator (Mr. Dream Act himself), Boneheaded, Dirt Bag, Dick Durbin. In light of the fact that we are currently fighting this boneheads Dream Act / Amnesty, I thought I’d share his comments with you.

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May 12, 2009

Mr. Xxxx Xxxxxx
123 Street Ave
Here, IL 601xx


Dear Mr. Xxxxxx:

Thank you for contacting me about making English the official language of the United States. I appreciate hearing from you.

I understand your concerns about the use of English in the United States. It is important for all residents in our country to become proficient in English. The ability to speak and read English is required of those who desire to become naturalized citizens.

During immigration debates in the Senate, I have supported measures that declare English to be the common and unifying language of the United States and state that the federal government shall preserve and enhance the role of English as America's common language. At the same time, I do not support measures that limit the U.S. government's ability to communicate or provide materials in any language other than English.

I believe that our government should provide certain types of information in whatever languages are necessary to ensure that the information is successfully communicated. Current law cannot predict all the situations in which human life, public safety, civil rights, and national security would be preserved through the dissemination of information in multiple languages.

For example, if an unforeseen epidemic swept across the country, government agencies should be permitted and expected to distribute important information to everyone who may need it, be they tourists from Japan, farm workers from Mexico, or visiting dignitaries from Senegal.

Considerations such as these led me to oppose measures seeking to make English the "official" language of the U.S. government.

I recognize the primacy of English as our common and unifying language. At the same time, is also important that we respect each person's cultural heritage. Our country's rich cultural diversity has been a source of strength for our nation. In fact, with changes in the world economy and the increasing importance to U.S. businesses of exports, the ability to speak a foreign language has become a valuable skill and should not be looked down upon.

I will keep your views in mind should the Senate consider legislation in the future relating to the English language.

Again, thank you for sharing your concerns with me. Please feel free to keep in touch.

Sincerely,
Richard J. Durbin
United States Senator

RJD/bm

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[color=darkblue]Note, He said: “I have supported measures that declare English to be the common and unifying language of the United Statesâ€