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Nashville Voters Deciding 'English First' Proposal Today

The Associated Press

Rosa Fernandez voted against 'English First,' noting that her daughter is trilingual, speaking English, Spanish and German. "I want Nashville to be an international city," she said.

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The Associated Press

Published: January 22, 2009

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Nashville voters are heading to the polls today to decide whether to make English the mandatory language for all city business.

The charter amendment dubbed "English First" would prevent city government from translating written materials into other languages or using interpreters for people who don't speak English well. There are exemptions for public health and safety.

If approved today, it would make Nashville the largest U.S. city with such a law.

Councilman Eric Crafton, who has led the proposal, argues that requiring one language is an orderly way to unite the city of more than half a million people.

Opponents say it would drive businesses, tourists and potentially millions in federal grants away from a city known for its Southern hospitality.

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