The A in English Award

Congressman Forbes was recently presented with the “A in English” award for his efforts in the 111th Congress to make English the official language of the United States. The “A in English” award is presented by U.S. English, Inc., the nation’s oldest, largest citizens’ action group dedicated to preserving the unifying role of the English language in the United States.

“The ability to communicate in one standard language in the workforce, in our schools, and in official functions and ceremonies builds unity among citizens and creates a sense of national pride,” said Forbes. “Requiring the use of English doesn’t mean we are any less tolerant of other languages spoken in the United States – it simply means that we want to create an environment where citizens can communicate properly with others in their daily activities. Declaring English as the official language of the United States is an important step in reaching that goal.”
“I am pleased to present this award to Rep. Forbes for his efforts to unite our diverse nation under the common language of English,” said Mauro E. Mujica, Chairman of the Board of U.S. English, Inc. “At a time when there is renewed interest toward preserving what unites us as a nation, we are grateful to Rep. Forbes for his dedicated and enthusiastic support of this issue.”
“A in English” honors were awarded to members who received “A” grades on the U.S. English, Inc. legislative scorecard for the 111th Congress. Legislation that factored into the decision included co-sponsorship of H.R. 997, the English Language Unity Act, as well as a series of Congressional votes on Puerto Rican statehood and preventing the removal of an English language requirement for citizenship. A full listing of the votes and grades can be found at http://www.usenglish.org.
Congressman Forbes has been a long-time advocate for making English the official language of the United States. He has cosponsored H.R. 997, the English Language Unity Act, which would declare English as the official language of the United States.