A lot of people in NM state how the NM Constitution recognizes two languages as official languages. Then they reference the Hidalgo Treaty. However, I have noted many times they reference these documents but never quote them. Though I paraphrase slightly for brevity, here is what those documents actually state:
NM Constitution states that resources shall be made available to teachers to learn Spanish. (It does NOT mandate teachers to learn Spanish.) Direct quote, "..and shall provide proper means and methods to facilitate the teaching of the English language and other branches of learning to such pupils and students."
The other references in the NM Constitution refer to no limitation to Spanish speaking individuals (and no limit to race, religion or color) to vote or hold office. However, all state assemblies are held only in English. There is NO provision for Spanish to be allowed in the workplace or for extracurricular school activities. (Likewise, an employer may require all employees to speak Spanish if there is valid business reasoning but cannot hire based on primary language, color or religion.) Unless a school activity is language based, there is NO requirement to allow any language besides English in on-academic activities (like football or tennis).
The Hidalgo Treaty states, "..The Mexicans who, in the territories aforesaid, shall not preserve the character of citizens of the Mexican Republic.."
The purpose of all the above is a deterrence of prejudice and loss of cultural identity while encouraging, if not requiring, the assimilation and ability to function as members of American society.
NM Constitution states that resources shall be made available to teachers to learn Spanish. (It does NOT mandate teachers to learn Spanish.) Direct quote, "..and shall provide proper means and methods to facilitate the teaching of the English language and other branches of learning to such pupils and students."
The other references in the NM Constitution refer to no limitation to Spanish speaking individuals (and no limit to race, religion or color) to vote or hold office. However, all state assemblies are held only in English. There is NO provision for Spanish to be allowed in the workplace or for extracurricular school activities. (Likewise, an employer may require all employees to speak Spanish if there is valid business reasoning but cannot hire based on primary language, color or religion.) Unless a school activity is language based, there is NO requirement to allow any language besides English in on-academic activities (like football or tennis).
The Hidalgo Treaty states, "..The Mexicans who, in the territories aforesaid, shall not preserve the character of citizens of the Mexican Republic.."
The purpose of all the above is a deterrence of prejudice and loss of cultural identity while encouraging, if not requiring, the assimilation and ability to function as members of American society.
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