Language is again causing trouble in Alabama...not cursing, but language other than English. This time it's in Albertville, where the population is 20% Hispanic. The Mayor wants all signs now in Spanish to have an English translation. He says it's a safety issue, that emergency responders might not understand where they are needed. Mayor Lindsey Lyons first brought up the issue when he was a candidate last year. Now the Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center is helping an Albertville Hispanic group negotiate. The local group says if Spanish signs have to be in English, then English signs should have to be in Spanish. We've been fighting this battle in Alabama for almost two decades, ever since the state constitution was amended to declare English the "official" language. Then there's the ongoing driver's license controversy. I just wonder what they'll do about the Albertville Taco Bell signs?
The recent economic downturn has done nothing to disprove long known market forces that are alive and well in Albertville.
ReplyDeleteOn the "demand" side we have some advocates for the Latino community. Not to mention a bunch of self-identified Latino business men and women.
On the "supply" side we have a bunch of people that still get paid. A whole bunch of whom affiliate with the Latino community, or are themselves members. Not to mention a bunch of self-identified Latino business men and women.
I believe that the people with the paychecks, not to mention the businesses, will ultimately make decisions about what signs are posted and where. I believe this because I know that those people with the paychecks ... (and did I already mention the businesses?) ... also have the vote.
"Happy Cinco De Mayo" to all!
lane