e the individuals responsibility to provide the education necessary to become an English-speaking member of our society.Another viewpoint on this subject was provided to me some sixteen years ago. The bilingual education issue was of primary concern to those states bordering Mexico and further limited to the metropolitan areas adjacent to the border. The mother of an acquaintance of mine was a Japanese national who had married an American Soldier, moved to the states and at the time spoke very little English. Over the years Ruako Gilkey had become a well educated, respected, prominent citizen in her community--El Paso, Texas.Ruako was extremely vocal when it came to bilingual education, speaking out against it at every opportunity, enough so that local news agencies repeatedly interviewed her. Her views and comments were quoted time and again in area news papers and she appeared in numerous television news interviews. Her whole precept on the subject of bilingual education was based on the fact that she had come to America of her own free will and never expected or felt that the American government owed her anything. Further, since it was her choice to become an American citizen, it was also her responsibility to learn the English language and raise her children accordingly. Personally, I agreed with Ruakos position on the issue unequivocally.To some this may seem a prejudicial, racist position; however, these views are based on personal experiences from having been a member of a Hispanic family and my friendship with Ruako Gilkey. Race, national origin, and the prejudices that usually accompany these types of hard issues are not a factor in determining where to stand on this sensitive topic. This position is based on what many non-United States nationals and I consider the responsibility and obligation of those wishing to make this country their home. Just as it should be for persons emigrating to America from Mexico, as well...
