On immigrants and their language use

This is essentially a reply comment that I posted at Anomalousdata.com with some modifications.

Many Americans don't realize that the relatively homogeneous communities of English speakers that many consider "normal" are a relatively recent phenomenon. It's only since the baby boom generation that there has been such a low level of foreign born. According to US census data, in 1890, 14.8 percent of the population was foreign born. This compares to an all-time low in 1970, when only 4.7 percent were foreign born. Since then, the percentage has been increasing, with 7.9 percent recorded for 1990. (source: http://www.census.gov/population/www/documentation/twps0029/tab01.html)Those who are concerned should check the census records. America has been a nation of immigrants through most of its history.

Also, as a Second Language Acquisition specialist, I can assure you that the vast majority (I'd hazard a guess at at least 90%) of immigrant families learn English; usually with the following pattern in the United States:

1) Immigrating generation: Monolingual in the native language, possibly bilingual as opportunity/necessity arise and depending on age. Adult immigrants have a much harder time at learning another language than children do. Also, currently in the USA, ESL (English as a second language) courses have very long waiting lists, so even those interested in learning aren't always able.

2) Children of immigrants: Bilingual in the heritage language and English language; though English is often their strongest language.

3) Grandchildren of immigrants: Monolingual English speakers. The heritage language is usually lost by this point.

Today, in fact, the second generation is often already monolingual English speaking, with perhaps a very low, receptive ability in the heritage language.

Therefore, the whole "English Only" thing is ridiculous. Anyone who has done the research can see that their fears are unfounded. Immigrants are learning English. Punishing them for not knowing English from the moment they 'step off the boat' is simply cruel and unreasonable. I believe it to be a thinly veiled expression of racism.

For more information, take a look at this article:

Alba, Richard & Jacob Stowell. "Linguistic assimilation across the generations: An analysis of home language among second- and third-generation children from contemporary immigrant groups. "
http://paa2007.princeton.edu/download.aspx?submissionId=7138