Vile and Degrading???

On the Pahrump English Languageand Patriot Reaffirmation Ordinance of 2006.

Source: Casper Star Tribune

"It's an approval for people to say vile and degrading things to Hispanics. It's one of those things that cannot be tolerated," said Fernando Romero, a political activist who attended the meeting.

HUH? I've read the entire ordinance, and nowhere does it state or even come close to implying that it's okay "for people to say vile and degrading things to Hispanics."

Well, how about letting the ordinance speak for itself...

The Town of Pahrump is comprised of individuals from diverse ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds, and continues to benefit from this rich diversity.

"This isn't just about Hispanics, it's about anyone who is different, anyone who comes from a different community," said 23-year-old Henry Amaya, a Hispanic-American who recently moved to Pahrump from California. "People should be able to speak whatever language they want to."

*SNIP*

Media attention has some here confused and intimidated, said Carmen Ruiz, a local real estate agent. The phrase, "English only," has people wondering if they can speak Spanish on the streets, she said.

Nothing in this section shall be construed to...disparage any language other than English or discourage any person from learning or using a language other than English.

"Language is linked to race and culture," said Anita Revilla, an assistant professor of women's studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. "This is a civil rights issue."

Culture? Absolutely. The English language, for instance, is linked to the American culture. But race? Not so much. Name for me one race that speaks a single common language.

And, as for civil rights, let's go back to the ordinance once again...

This section shall not apply to...a language usage required by or necessary to secure the rights guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America or the Constitution of the State of Nevada.

I said it before, and I'll say it again: vile and degrading???

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