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ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senate adoption of competing amendments on the role of English to an immigration bill is "yet another shameful charade meant to deceive voters," according to ProEnglish Executive Director K.C. McAlpin.

McAlpin praised the Inhofe amendment, which passed on a 64-33 vote - an addition of two votes when it first passed over a year ago. It designates English "the national language." While not barring the government from using other languages, it specified that no one has the right to government services in a language other than English at the federal, state and local levels. "But that angered language separatists and multicultural ideologues," he said, "so the Senate foolishly turned around and voted 58-39 for the Salazar amendment, a meaningless alternative that courts are more likely to regard as indicative of Congressional intent because it was adopted after the Inhofe amendment."

"The Salazar amendment, which also passed last year by the same margin, says 'English is our common and unifying language,' which is like saying that the Atlantic Ocean is full of water," said McAlpin. "Fifty-three countries have already made English their official language. But the Salazar amendment -- which blatantly undercuts the Inhofe provision- makes sure the U.S. won't join them. Salazer also protects President Clinton's Executive Order 13166, so government agencies will still be required to provide translations and interpreters in foreign languages"

"English is the language of opportunity," McAlpin adds. "Learning English enables immigrants to fully assimilate into American society, where they can find well-paying jobs and realize the American dream."

"For any immigration bill to be truly 'comprehensive,' it must include a common-sense provision declaring English our official language," McAlpin said. "Everyone knows English is our nation's language. It's time for the Senate to stop playing games, repeal Clinton's multilingual executive order and make English official."

For more information about the Inhofe and Salazar amendments, including vote results, click here.