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January 12, 2009
English First strongly supports efforts to make English the official language of Nashville, Tennessee.
English First, a national lobbying organization based in Springfield, Virginia, is dedicated to making English America’s official language. Jim Boulet, Jr., Executive Director of English First, called the move a “big step in the right direction” toward a unified, national language.
The effort in Nashville is led by city councilman Eric Crafton. His proposal, which he calls an “English First” plan, would prohibit the city government from using languages other than English, with exceptions for health and safety related services.
“I happened to see a state legislature meeting in California where several of the state representatives had interpreters at their desks because they couldn’t speak English,” Mr. Crafton told reporters. “That’s not the vision I have for Nashville.”
English First’s Jim Boulet agrees. “The language policies in Nashville, indeed in cities throughout the country, often divide us rather than unite us. Councilman Crafton’s proposal is a giant step in the right direction that will not only benefit Nashville, but will also served as an example to other localities,” Boulet said.
The proposal will appear in the ballot in a January 22 election. Early voting is already taking place and will continue until January 17.
If successful, Mr. Crafton’s efforts would make Nashville the largest city in the nation with an “English First” policy.
English First
8001 Forbes Place, Suite 102
Springfield, VA 22151
703-321-8818
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