Bill would make English official language of U.S. government

We are "one nation under God", and to continue to be a "melting pot" of liberty, we must maintain a single language. It amazes me, that in a world that has gravitated toward the English language as a standard, we cannot require English to be used here in the USA. Use of any other language disincentivizes the need to assimilate. Even liberal European countries are rapidly coming to this conclusion.

Excerpt: Two conservative Republican lawmakers, Congressman Steve King (R-Iowa) and Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), introduced the English Language Unity Act of 2011 on Friday, a bill that requires that all official United States government functions be conducted in English.

"A common language is the most powerful unifying force known throughout history," King said in a release. "We need to encourage assimilation of all legal immigrants in each generation. A nation divided by language cannot pull together as effectively as a people."

Added Inhofe: "This legislation will provide much-needed commonality among United States citizens, regardless of heritage. As a nation built by immigrants, it is important that we share one vision and one official language."

U.S. Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa. (Credit: AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
The bill would also establish a uniform language requirement for naturalization and oblige federal government officials to encourage people to learn English.

Read full CBS News article here.