Posted by Darka Hawryshkiw on March 21, 2000 at 17:16:26:
Ann, I find it interesting that you find this diiscussion repulasive as a native American. Are you aware of the history of language planning that has gone on in the United States for the last few centuries? (or are you Latin American? this website is approached on an international level - perhaps you might clarify which part of the Americas you are from).
Did you know that a dominant language at one time in U.S. history was German and that a many a classroom in the U.S. was conducted in the German language? Even today, the U.S. provides partial support for some bilingual education programs. However, these programs are transitional in nature, in keeping with U.S. society's larger assimilationist goals. Do you find THAT repulasive? Or do your views only extend in an outward manner?
Why do I keep bringing up this issue of bilingual ed, one might ask. As another example, there exist some well-documented and very successful bilingual Ukrainian-English programs in Canada. They allow for the flourishing of the Ukrainian language while at the same time recognize that those who live and work and study in Canada will also need to know English. It is time for those who live and work and study in Ukraine to learn Ukrainian. Nobody wants to make them Ukrainians nor will try.
Let me put this as simple as I can:
It is time for Ukrainians to have some voice (FINALLY) about what goes on in Ukraine....
and the quicker we break identity with Russia proper, the better. Their imperialist appetite seems to be resurging - again.