I have some comments about recent letters speaking negatively on foreigners speaking their native language in public.

It may make some feel uncomfortable to have people speaking a foreign language in their presence, because they think they’re talking about them. Chances are, they’re just having a conversation amongst themselves. If foreign speakers don’t understand what you want, go to someone who does and give these immigrants a chance to learn English.

Many immigrants hold down two or more jobs doing things many Americans feel beneath them. Some are happy to remain speaking their native language. As long as they’re productive members of society, I don’t give a hoot what language they speak in my presence.

I’ve learned a bit of Filipino, Japanese, Spanish and Russian during my years in Kodiak, and find it interesting and challenging and makes for enjoyable race relations.

We have a wonderfully diverse ethnic community. Why besmirch fine ethnic diversity with racist letters?

When we move to foreign countries, none to my knowledge require we speak their language.

As to the suggestion that non-English speakers return to their countries of their origin: The hospital would grind to a halt without Filipino doctors, CNAs and nurses, not to mention our largest store and fish processing plants would cease operation, as well as fishermen.

Mainly Hispanic people harvest our produce. Without them there would be no produce or delicious Mexican cuisine.

Many people are unaware that Filipino Army troops stood by Americans as the Japanese overran the Philippines during WWII and endured the brutal Bataan Death March and internment. Whether or not you agree with the Vietnam War, Philippine troops fought alongside us.

My only immigration concern is that it be legal, as was my grandmother’s when she entered through Ellis Island in 1910. She never spoke correct English and was hard at times to understand, but I was very proud of Nan. She held two jobs to make ends meet and was very generous to her family.

God has commanded us to love our neighbor. Racist letters to the Editor, I feel, do not fulfill this commandment. If you letter writers consider yourself Christians, keep this in mind.