Dec 9, 2018 3 min read

Recently, while waiting in a long checkout line, I struck up a conversation with an elderly person. The usual small talk about the weather and holiday shopping ensued for the first minute. Without prompting, this person diverted the discourse into degrading people who speak a language other than our American/Western Pennsylvanian version of the Queen’s English.

It began with the frequently heard, “They’re here, they should speak English!” After listening to a few more nerve-grating statements, I decided that a lesson in common civility needed to be introduced into the discussion. My opening rebuttal was direct and simple: “What language would you speak if you were in a foreign country, and you were with your friends and family?” The answer is completely obvious. Surely, anyone would speak in their own language in order to carry on personal conversations without fumbling and stumbling for words of a second language. Furthermore, what people are discussing among themselves in their own language is none of anyone’s business. Likewise, the same holds true for those of us conversing among ourselves in English.

It is an unquestionable certainty that if a foreign visitor, or guest worker, needs to conduct commerce or business while here, a basic ability to make themselves understood in English should reasonably be expected. However, there are no restrictions that require non-natives to carry on personal business so we can eavesdrop at our whim. A few additional points: English is a difficult language to master. In some cases, these foreigners are working 10, 12, or 14 hours a day, seven days a week, performing many laborious tasks at which so many Americans turn up their noses. Where would they find the time, and energy, to diligently study English to proficiency, so others can listen in on their private business?

As I see it, what we have here is a pathetic case of fear and/or hatred of foreigners, known as xenophobia – fear, hatred or mistrust of people from other cultures or countries.  People who are stricken with it should have learned in civics class that America is the great melting pot, and that fact is one of our most profound strengths. Demographic projections are forecasting that in a few decades the current majority white race may find itself to be in an uncomfortable minority. It has become painfully obvious that this conjecture scares those who have traditionally rejected and resisted immigration to the United States.

Perhaps it would be wise and prudent to treat people from other cultures with tolerance, understanding, dignity and respect, lest they remember how they were mistreated, and subsequently turn the tables on those who denigrated them when the political winds of power shift!

Ronald J. Yamka

Canonsburg