Blog 1: "Going Home Again" by Richard Rodriguez

In his piece "Going Home Again," Richard Rodriguez writes about his experience with bilingualism and biculturalism as an academic. He basically encourages bilingual students to set aside any language other than English if they wish to succeed and achieve their full potential academically. I'd have to disagree right from the beginning on the necessity of this approach. It is true that there is some alienation from (extended) family and even displacement, but bilingualism actually expands the mind in ways that many other disciplines cannot. Language can be a barrier or a bridge between people, depending on how you approach or see it. When you embrace bilingualism, you realize your ability to build and maintain bridges multiplies exponentially. It's a communication gift. It allows you to see the nuances within human societies and experiences. So, I would say I fundamentally disagree with Mr. Rodriguez approach to this issue in particular. The bilingual question of many students is a complicated one, therefore it requires a complicated solution. The U.S. education system should not simply resort to excluding any/all languages other than English; it's too narrow minded.