Opposing the California Ballot Initiative "English Language for the Children" Proposition 227 (Unz/Tuchman)

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 Language 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 this 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.