Try to count the number of grammar errors, misused words, and inelegant turns of phrase in this letter arguing for a workplace English-only policy. Going to restaurants, the author reports, “I walk inside and almost forget we are in America, where there is English speaking.”

One can’t tell whether the letter is a work of comedy or a clever ruse to undermine the movement for English-only policies. Did the publisher pick this letter to publish because of its use of language or despite it?

H.R. 997, the English Language Unity Act of 2007, would declare English as the official language of the United States. H.R. 5759 would declare English as the national language of the Government of the United States. One hopes their authors and supporters present their arguments well. There are many more bills that deal with the use of English various ways.

Here are the current votes on these two. Click to vote, comment, learn more, or edit the wiki articles about the bill.

Have I let errors into this Friday-evening (75th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition) post? I’m sure I’ll hear about it! Physician, heal thyself!