Dreier Co-Sponsors Resolution Calling for National Anthem To Be Sung In English

May 12, 2006

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas,CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, earlier this week called for the national anthem to be sung in English. Dreier also announced that he supports and is a co-sponsor of H.Res. 793, which affirms that statements of national unity, including the national anthem, should be recited or sung in English. In remarks delivered on the House floor, Dreier said:

"Americans hail from many different backgrounds, but we are united by our freedoms, our democratic government, and our language. It goes without saying that the Star Spangled Banner should be sung in English.

"The Spanish-language anthem, to me, is nothing but a cynical attempt to divide our country during the debate on this most vigorous and divisive issue of immigration and illegal immigration. It will not distract from the critical task at hand: securing our borders.

"I am committed to enforcing our immigration laws and effectively reforming our immigration system without providing amnesty. And I believe that all of our colleagues should join in co-sponsoring the legislation offered by our colleague from Kansas, Mr. Ryan, H. Res. 793, which will underscore the fact that the Star Spangled Banner should be sung in English." The resolution states: "While millions of Americans speak or study additional languages, English is their common language."

It continues: "H.Res. 793 recognizes that the English language unites Americans of varied races, ancestries and origins, and that reinforcing its use honors the original national motto of the United States, 'E Pluribus Unum', meaning ‘from many, one.’"