It enables us to communicate with one another at a level and a complexity unknown in other species. It is the source of our civilization, our ability to pass culture and history from generation to generation. Language allows us to communicate with Thomas Jefferson, read Paul's letters to the Romans or enjoy the works of Pablo Neruda or Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz. Language, the tool that allows us to share these thoughts now, is what the Unz amendment proposes to put at risk. By interrupting the normal, complex, wonderful development of linguistic ability to artificially force the learning of English in a way that will compromise the intellectual development of our children.
Research worldwide suggests that there is a steady process of mental development through childhood.
Its depth and power depend largely on the development of neural linkages through language. It is more important to first develop strong, powerful minds in whatever language. Then a second language can effectively be added. Lose the developmental, neural foundation and any language, including English, will be compromised. Proposition 227 would not only stifle the intellectual development of our children, it would also stifle their later ability to learn other languages.