Resolution Opposing the California Ballot Initiative
"English for the Children" – Proposition 227 (Unz/Tuchman)
by the American Association for Applied Linguistics
WHEREAS, The American Association for Applied Linguistics endorses appropriate
language instruction for immigrant and language minority children that
both promotes their acquisition of English and protects their right to
maintain and develop their heritage languages; and
WHEREAS, The proposed ballot initiative “English for the Children” proposes
to restrict or remove access to appropriate instruction to achieve these
ends while introducing harmful educational policies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED at the general business meeting of the American
Association for Applied Linguistics, convened on this 17th day of March,
1998:
1. THAT, The American Association for Applied Linguistics make publicly
known its firm opposition to the proposition; and
2. THAT, The American Association for Applied Linguistics offer its
services to the government and people of California so that professional
knowledge concerning language and educational access can be fully considered
before decisions are made on this important issue.
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