If foreigners can get by here without learning English, fine. We are a multi-cultural society and as such this involves people speaking different languages.

If I was transferred to, say Russia or China (or any of hundreds of countries) there is simply no way I'm going to learn that language first. And, for China, I would have to speak many dialects to pass some entry test.

So, we would have impose no stricter standards on migrant workers than we would want for ourself if moving internationally.

IMO...Learning the native language of a given nation, should not be mandatory. On the other hand, the government should not use taxpayers money, or create laws, to facilitate immigrants,or visitors. Private industry, and individuals, should be allowed to help, if they choose to. Especially in promoting international trade, and tourism.

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I am sensitive to the plight of the foreigner. While visiting the bay area, from the country, I was at quite the loss. Not speaking P/C and all.............(jk)

I have a heart for all people. I posted the question because it seems that people are seeing the person and not seeing the issues. What happens when I go on a trip, stop at a gas station, food mart or other business and need assistance (like something as simple as "where is the restroom?") and the counter person smiles and says " I no speak English" is the response I get? Or I am standing in line and someone steps in front and when I attempt to speak to them and correct the error, they say the same? smiling and nodding yes?

What of driving on US roads and not being able to read signs?

TonyA, wouldn't you need to have a working knowlege of the language if you plan to go there and work or stay to live? I am not speaking of a year visit, but those who would be staying a long term and planing to work.

eve123: In response to your comment. There is a big difference between authorities mandating that English be spoken and read as a condition of working in the US, and in workers or tourists using commonsense in learning appropriate language in order to be understood and get by.

My biggest dilemma is: should the educational system have to provide for these foreign workers children's learning in their native tongue if they don't speak English?

And what is the answer? Children need to learn to integrate, why not the parents?And why not before they come? or maybe you have a better idea?

My mother, uncle and grandmother all had to learn English to make it here, and they did it on their own. Here though is the issue, they wanted too, to integrate into the American way of life. My grandmother worked in a nursing home until she retire and worked very hard. She was grateful for her life and passed a very content woman. My uncle found an internship where he learned to be a machinist. He worked his way up to a position of supervisor. They did not have English classes, but they learned, and got their citizenships.

I find this whole subject a dilemma.

I have spanish friends, who did it on there own and one is a college professor working on her PhD. She said she did it on her own and feels no need for excuses or exception. I am not sure where I stand. My heart want those who come to this country to gain but not at the expense of everyone else.

eve123: It seems that everyone speake English these days. I've spent time in many countries over the years, and apart from the French and Russian words for yes and no, I know nothing of any foreign language.

But, it makes a lot of sense to at least become familiar with the local language if one is to spend time there. Whether that language skill should be compulsory is the question.