Q: I live in northern California, where there are lots of people whose first language is Spanish. My own Spanish is only fair (I’m not Latina), but from time to time it seems that I could explain something in Spanish to someone in a public place – like letting someone whom I hear speaking Spanish know an express line is open at the grocery, for example, or clarifying a question at the bagel shop.
However, I am reluctant to speak Spanish to folks because I am afraid I will be insulting them by implying they don’t know English. Should I try English first and risk embarrassing the person, or should I try Spanish first and risk insulting him or her? Thanks!
Lily: Try English first. Most people want to learn the language and need to practice. If they still look confused and disoriented, try Spanish.
Recently I overheard a lady at the pharmacy attempting to communicate her small child’s ailment. She was having such a hard time coping with him being sick and was struggling with her English so much that I stepped in and helped translate for her. Trying English first in this situation would have probably added to her frustration.
Use your personal judgment. And never feel self-conscious. What you do is much appreciated.
Danny: I am so confused! The political correctness of this country is driving us all batty. As a Spanish speaker, I always default to English as the primary approach.
Because we are in an English-speaking country, it stands to reason that English should be the first language you try. Then transition to whatever other language you are versed in and deem appropriate.
Everyone in this country should know enough English to communicate. With this said, knowing another language is a helpful bridge to new worlds.
I commend you for choosing to be bilingual in a country so adamant over a monolingual society. We truly are becoming a multilingual global society. Unfortunately, this advantage is achieved only by those who are born into it, choose to learn it or bring it with them from abroad.
Catherine: We’re three for three on this one: Try English first. So many people never learn English because they never have the need. Everywhere they turn, translated signs explain directions, and people are always eager to speak their native language.
Do we need a law declaring English the official language of this country? That’s for the politicians to decide in their infinite wisdom – in an election year, no less. (But this raises an obvious question: Will this law be translated into Spanish for the millions who don’t speak English?)
Your letter is a good reminder of the humanity we all share. If someone is in need and you can help him or her with a kind act, word or shared language, go for it. I commend you for learning Spanish and even more for wanting to help people in need. Try out your luck in English, but obviously slip into Spanish if someone is in dire need and you can help.
Consejos is a bilingual advice column focused on relationships, culture and identity. E-mail your questions or comments to consejos@dallasnews.com. Or send your letters to Consejos, c/o Texas Living, The Dallas Morning News, 508 Young St., Dallas, TX 75202. Visit Lily, Catherine and Danny online at DallasNews.com/consejos.)
