Use of ‘hey,’ Spanish are quite insulting

Use of ‘hey,’ Spanish are quite insulting

Kathleen Parker, I don’t know if you or your editor are responsible for the “headline” of your article. I find “Hey” very insulting and derogatory as a way to get someone’s attention. My children and grandchildren have been taught not to use the word because of the above reasons.

And as for the rest of the “headline,” the use of Spanish words is also insulting. I am a product of immigrants who came to this country legally, many decades ago. They had to have jobs and a sponsor before they came in to this country. They kept their customs alive in their homes and neighborhoods, but quickly assimilated into this land of opportunity and freedom, became citizens, and prospered through work while living in a country that rewarded their efforts. No one was told to learn their language in order to be a good citizen and to get a job.

My grandchild is getting ready to enter junior high. He is hoping to learn Chinese because that is who we will be dealing with now and in the future economic world. And they have certainly learned our language while propping up our economy. Continuing to cater to people who refuse to learn the American language and expect handouts left and right for being here will only suppress their success.

Sue Tiedeman

Elgin