Letter to the editor: A common language binds us together

Annie Abbott’s opinion of the president’s declaration of English as the U.S. official language reveals a clear misunderstanding of history and political reality (“Multilingualism not a threat. It belongs in our country,” March 7, TribLive). Countries need a key core concept that cultivates “commonality” which binds them. The U.S. was able to evolve as a country in large part because of its common English language. Anyone who studied U.S. history is familiar with this analysis and reasoning.

I lived through this as a young boy in the 1940s when my parents surrendered their Italian and Polish for English so that I could capitalize on the opportunities available here. Yes, I have some regrets and nostalgia. However, the benefits that followed were more than worthy. It’s called the “American Dream.”

Abbott’s negative view is exaggerated and short-sighted. She should realize that any significant change in one’s life can be traumatic and there may be a price to pay. If the price is so high, as she seems to believe, why do they stay or keep coming?

Louis F. D’Emilio

Penn Township, Westmoreland County