President of the U.S., 1989-1993; Former Republican Rep. (TX)
Supports "English First" but not via federal law
On "English First," I cannot change my position. I strongly favor every child learning to speak English, but I don't think we need a federal law. I worry about prejudice against Hispanics, particularly, and I am afraid the "English
First" debate could stir up prejudice and curtail linguistic education programs that I think are absolutely essential to teach all Americans to speak English properly. I know public opinion is on the other side, but this is how I feel.
Source: Letter from George Bush in All The Best, p.369-370
Nov 6, 1987
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