Commerce Secretary-designate Bill Richardson Accepts Nod in English and Spanish

Statement by U.S. English, Inc. Chairman Mauro E. Mujica

Earlier today, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, President-elect Barack Obama’s choice for Secretary of Commerce delivered his acceptance speech in both English and Spanish.

“Even as a native Spanish speaker, I am dismayed by Gov. Richardson’s choice to give his acceptance speech in both English and Spanish.

“Bill Richardson has been chosen to represent the United States of America and all of its people – not just those of Hispanic heritage. If he is truly committed to representing the interests of our diverse society then he should speak in the language that unites all Americans – English.

“As the nation’s highest ranking Hispanic, Gov. Richardson needs to be a role model to the more than 10 million Spanish speaking Americans who struggle with English. While he should demonstrate that being bilingual is a wonderful asset, he cannot lose sight of the fact that without English language fluency, he would never have risen to serve in the President’s cabinet.

“Unfortunately, the use of Spanish in his speech underscores the growing reality that it is possible to live an English-optional existence in the United States. As ideal as the provision of daily government services in multiple languages may sound to some, an English-optional existence merely paves the way for minimal opportunities, lower earnings and a darker future. In these times of economic uncertainty, it is the absolute wrong message to send.

“I hope that President-elect Obama and the United States will counsel Gov. Richardson and ensure that he intends to fairly and equally represent the interests of all Americans as Secretary of Commerce.”