The U.S. national anthem — in Spanish
Saturday April 29, 2006
I must admit I have been stunned by the response the newly recorded Spanish-language version of "The Star-Spangled Banner," known as Nuestro Himno, has garnered. When I first posted some Spanish translations of the national anthem on this site a couple years ago (you can see them by following the link above), I did so primarily for instructional reasons — people learning Spanish can benefit from seeing how things they know are translated, and I knew that there would be plenty of native Spanish speakers who would appreciate knowing the meaning of the himno nacional americano.
It didn't even cross my mind that interpreting the anthem in Spanish might be controversial.
Obviously I was wrong. This subject has resulted in far more comments than anything else I've written about on this site.
Why all the controversy? Why have such strong passions been stirred? Is it patriotism? Racism? Love of the English lyrics? Xenophobia? An appreciation for the rule of law? I honestly don't know. But I'd appreciate hearing your comments, either through the blog Comments link below or our forum. Feel free to post in either location in English or (dare I say it?) Spanish.
Comments
Spanish version of anthem is an incredibly stupid thing to do. And just when illegal immigrants DON’T need the inevitable negative reaction.
I love Latinos! However,when my grandparents came from European countries, they learned English.
The US national anthem in native langages would divide rather
than unify our country.
To all illegal Mexican immigrants,
As usual, you just have to use the racist crutch when you know you are completely in the wrong. We who were born here (regardless of your heritage) or became an American LEGALLY are Americans. ANYONE who enters this wonderful country ILLEGALLY is not! They are a burden! How can you expect to be welcomed into our country and culture when you have disrespected the laws of this great nation from the first step that you took on this great land of ours? You rally, arrogantly demanding the rights that we have by birthright just because you are here now illegally standing on our land. You even refuse to even learn the language? Why do you expect us to change who and what we are to make you illegal immigrants happy? What makes you better than our ancestors that did come here LEGALLY and BLENDED into OUR society rather that hop a fence and demand we learn yours? It amazes me how stupid and arrogant you are!
Now on top of all of this you are disrespecting our beloved National Anthem by making a Mexican version and claiming it’s to help immigrants to understand it? LEARN ENGLISH! Here you are again trying to change us to accommodate you. All you do is cry about getting our birthrights, how you are Americans just because you are standing on our soil (illegally) and continually put up more disgracing barriers between us such as this song. This is a sacred song in our hearts and you just stabbed us there. You just don’t understand, do you? That’s most likely due to the fact that you refuse to learn English.
Your actions tell us everything about who you really are.It doesn’t look promising.
I agree with #1 an #2.
I really do not care how people get here, but translating the national anthem could lead to problems.
I think it is funny how Americans(I am a citizen by the way) think this is “our” land. Keep in mind that it is only our land because we took it by force. Then we created laws saying it is ours and that we can pick and choose who can and can not enter “our” land. Our forefathers stole this land, so some of you need to get off your high horse and realize the oppression of a people who were here thousands of years before us. I would go as far to say that native americans owned this land for the fact that they had been here for so long…maybe we are here illegally…..
If you wish to be an American or live in this country, do as I have had to do in many countries I have been in; learn the language or go back home. A lot of my friends died for our country and the flag that we honour and the anthem we sing. Do not dishonour them or our citizens with trashing our National Anthem.
A Spanish version of our National anthem, I say hell no. It was writen in English and should be sung in Enlish. I apreciate that this country is a big melting pot of people from other countries, but our native lanuage is English. We do not change everything in our country for people that speak German, French, or any other language, why should we for Spanish. Let them learn English, our native language. Just like every other nationality that has come to live in this great country has.
Reality check time; What other country in the world would ever accept a National anthem NOT in their own language? It’s a nice idea if they want to sing it in their own living rooms!
I am for comprehensive immigration reform. Undocumented immigrants need to wake up and understand that most american do not like the fact our immigration laws were broken. Singing the national anthem in spanish as #1 stated is incredible stupid and it only gives cause to the far right who want to deport every undocumented person in the United States. Think!!!!!
Everybody knows the national anthem is in English and I don’t think this gesture is meant to surplant the English version. Instead I think it is a compliment that it is in Spanish too. As a latino in support of real immigration policy complete with a path to citizenship as well as a workers permit and more security at the border I think people need to lighten up. Afterall our national anthem comes from a old British drinking song.
I wonder what would happen if we changed the Mexican National Anthem in English. Oh by the way, to make it our own we sould change a couple of verses and what the heck let’s throw in a couple of Anti-Mexican diatribe while we are at it. Funny, how these people don’t understand why Americans would be upset? Hey, while we are at it let’s change all the National Anthems of these artists. Start with Colombia. To me it shows that they are bunch of ungrateful ingrates, period!
This page is about to get slammed… Somebody actually recorded and is releasing the Star Spangled Banner in Spanish!!!
Personally, I hope it gets a huge amount of airplay. If you think there was a backlash from illegal aliens flying the Mexican flag at their marches…
YOU AIN’T SEEN NOTHIN’ YET.
A new low.. a British guy changes the words of the national anthem and gets some minor celebrities to sing. Sure he wants everybody to play it a certain time,,, hmmm that should make him some bank.
This is the most disrespectful act yet. . Let that British record producer try to record God Save the Queen in arabic to welcome all the immigrants in the UK . He has all the money after all the pound kicks the dollar all the way to the bank
How come noone has pointed out what a bunch of cowards this group of illegals are? You march on our soil with no fear of reprisal and number in the millions. How come not one of you has said if we have this many of us let’s go take back our latin american country(s). The reason you do this here and not back in your homelands is because you’d be shot. COWARDS! All OF YOU!
I am a native East L.A. Gringo( Calif. USA). I was raised where our country really began. (before the Pilgrims). I’ve lived in Puerto Rico for over 40 years. At least the hispanics know what country their in and where it’s located. You might want to ask Congress where our country was originally discovered. I do believe we need to know the English version
I think the National Anthem, should be left as it is. It was wrote for AMERICANS and only AMERICANS. If you go to a country other than your own….THEN LEARN THE LANGUAGE OF THAT COUNTRY…..we the people of the United States…should not have to change our language to satisfy people from oher countries that also take our jobs as well. If they want to speak their own language…THEN GO HONME AND STAY!!!!!!!!!
The national anthem is a sacred thing that should never be changed from the original. It represents americans and no one else from any other country but the land of the free. Even if you come to live here it does not give you the right to change our costums to fit your wants.
See, the thing is, Spanish speakers ARE part of this country….we always have been, and always will. Spanish has been spoken here since before it was the United States. As bilingual speakers, it’s really beautiful that we can finally sing our national anthem in either Spanish or English–the point is, it’s still the _U.S.national anthem. I wish the same for bilingual speakers of other heritages as well.
People, singing in Spanish does NOT mean you don’t speak English. Being bilingual is NOT a bad thing (why do we stamp it out of kindergartners, then teach second languages in college?).
Being proud of monolingualism is as silly as being proud of ignorance. Everybody should learn a second (or third!) language! And sing the anthem in it!
Where around the web can you listen to our USA national anthem in Spanish?…
UUURRRGGGHHHH!! When will “ILLEGALS” get it? They are being led around by people who don’t give a flip about helping the illegals. These so called “leaders” are just puppets of mexican business interest who want to break the american hold on their people. THE only solution to this problem is to increase wages in mexico for the common person there. Illegals keep americas minimum wage low by taking the so-called “unwanted” jobs in this country. The reason these jobs are unwanted? Because big-business doesn’t have to “pony-up” appropriate wages for these jobs because illegals take them. How can illegals be paying taxes with illegal documents? Both the america and the mexican governments are to blame for this problem. Thanks NAFTA!! Also, Mr. Eugene Dilan needs to do some homework and realize that the national anthems words were written by Francis Scott Key as a poem to commerate the war of 1812. This so “immigrant” illustrates the problem of illegals. You pay less for them, but you get less quality results from them!
I think it is sad that Luke (comment 5) doesn’t realize the advantages that the US has given the people who live here and what the US has given the world. Only one example is through our consumption, we are raising 2B people out of poverty. We fuel the world economy through our imports. Can Luke name a country that wasn’t established by force? So does Luke want to give this country “back” to Mexico? What has the Mexican government done for its citizens other than create conditions where half of them want to leave.
The advantages???…well we sure have given ourselves many advantages and a pretty luxurious lifestyle at the expense of others in the world. Our consumption is irresponsible in my opinion. We are a nation of greedy, overfed, extremely wasteful, spoiled whiners. All of you who say these people are taking our jobs, look at our current unemployment rate of about 4.8 percent…that is pretty low…I guess i really don’t know enough about this issue to really debate it i’ll admit…I just I wish people would at least acknowledge the fact that people want to come here because we have it nicer and better at the expense of others. It is pretty far-fetched to say the world is a better place because of americas exsistance. You have been brainwashed by the corporations to think that…
TO ALL IMMAGRANTS,
TO ALL IMMAGRANTS,
We do not come into your country and change your coulture and change. I am young, but old enough to know our, as in english ansestors, were immagrants, but we fought for our right to be here and during the War of 1812 Fransis Scott Key was captured and he wrote the story and to this day it has been our anthem. If you think YOU can come to our country that we proudly fought for and change our anthem than you are WRONG. My ancestors all the way back to the Tusscarrora war fought fore this country . And if your country thinks you can just come over and have a party and change our anthem I dont think so. We are here to fight and defend our Nation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you spent 600 years building your country and then saw us start changing I am 300 percent positive you would be outraged. You are welcome to stay in our country, LEGALLY, but once you pull a stunt like this your out of this country for good.
I realize that the Indians and mexicans (acutally the Spanish) were here before us. But people have come from all over the world to this country and everyone learned English to be able to communicate and get along. Even the Indians and the Spanish that were here. Now YOU sneak into our country like a weasel, and expect us to cater to you. When you leave and come back into this country with your head high and learn the language, then you can expect some considerations. Until then, I don’t think so. As for OUR national anthem in Spanish. That is beyond ridiculous.
Hey people who do you think you are? Just because u were born here and because your “ancestors” did something great doesn’t give u the right to tell other people wat not to sing! That would be a monarchy. What about the LEGAL IMMIGRANTS, DO THEY NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO EXPRESS THERE LOVE FOR THIS COUNTRY??? Do you know how hard it is to learn another langauge?? I’m so mad at you stuborn people that wont change your way just one little bit to help another person! Thats called being narrow minded!!! Like number 5 said “get off your high horse.” IT SHOULDNT MATTER WHERE YOU COME FROM OR WHAT LANGAUE YOU SPEAK YOU SHOULD BE ALOWED TO EXPRESS YOUR LOVE OF THE USA. And if anyone denouces this anthem you are douncing freedom it self!!!
I sense a lot of anger here, but please help me understand: Why can’t we remove the original National Anthem tranlation to spanish from the Library of Congress (words and Music)http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cocoon/ihas/loc.natlib.ihas.100000007/default.html
This was done back in 1919!by the department of Education and all of the board members were American Citizens .. and now a group of American Citizens try to play the song and there is a problem with it? I have no idea how this issue can be related on ilegal immigration.
Who is to blame when 61% of the citizens do not know word by word the National Anthem? Ilegal Immigration?
Get a grip on the real issue(s), the National Anthem is not a direspecful act in a different language, and the words *are* an effort to honor the author of the anthem and to not make fun of him.
Geeee! .. If the National Anthem is so patriotic, be a patriot: learn IT!.. while we are thinking of this piece of art removed from the Library of COngress, might as well cut the statue of liberty in pieces and send it back to France! .. why? .. becasue it does not mean anything to AMERICANS! A la mierda con tanto patriotismo!
As a member of the Military I find it revolting that anyone would support this garbage. The Star Bangled Banner is a verbal monument that is being trashed by illegal immigrants that should have been shot while crossing the fence and ungrateful trash that shouldn’t be allowed an opinion. I think more of the hodgies here in the desert than I do of these illegal immigrants, protestors, and Luke #5 #22. If you don’t like my anthem or American policy then get out by way of Canada, Mexico, or drown yourself swimming in of the the two oceans because the United States of anti-immigration America doesn’t want your filth, especially you Luke #5 #22.
My Parents came from Mexico. They did it LEGALLY. They stood in line. They waited their turn. They “Learned” to speak “English”. They tought me english. I am very proud of my heritage. They taught me to “OBEY THE LAWS OF THIS GREAT LAND”. I am to be punished to the full extent of the law, if I break it. No rewards, No pat on the back, No taxpayer benefits, No get out of jail free card. If I need a job, I go to an Interview, and go through the process, I don’t try to “Steal” someone eleses position. The Fact Of The Matter is, that Illegal Aliens are bad for this country. Once a cheater always a cheater. It is at a point that Illegals are “NUMB” to their crimes. No matter what the reason is, ALL Who enter this coutry Illegally “ARE CRIMINALS”…period. They hide behind the guise of, “I just want a better life”. What about all the people who (Illegals)are waiting and waiting and waiting longer due to “Cheaters”. This country is being raped and the “Citizens” of this country are being “spit on”. Too Add Insult To Injury, Now….they want to Change Our National Anthem. They won’t learn english,which is by the way our national language and so they want to promote a “Revised National Anthem” (which was not written by an american) because the current anthem is to hard? My life like many others in this great land, has been a struggle. I was homeless and slept in fields while I finished college. What’s my point? I did what I had to do, the legal and lawfull way to get ahead. And become a viable citizen in this country. Why can’t they? People say you can’t break up their families, once again they take the easy way out and use that guise. Why doesn’t (anyone please) say to them, If you really cared about your family, then why did you break the law to just get ahead? What are they teaching there children. What does it say about their respect for our laws. I am a Veteran Of This Great Nation, I would gladly lay my life down to preserve “OUR AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE”. I will not lay my life down for a bunch of criminals. Our Anthem is our American Anthem, Not the American Illegal Alien Anthem. If you are an Illegall alien, go home and come back the right way…..And Learn English….And By No Means Desecrate Americans Great Anthem. If you don’t like what I have to say…..Then Go Back. I Swore An Oath To Defend This Country With My Life, I’ll Be Damned Before I Let An Illegal Immigrant “Bootleg” Americas National Anthem Just To Get Ahead….Illegally. Why Is It That I am Not Surprised?
From the first moment an illegal alien arrives in this country, he begins a systematic perpetration of fraud and deceit. From illegal entry, to identity theft, to robbing of our country’s resources. He repeats this daily and is enabled by those who aid him. “Illegal” means against the law. Those who stay here illegally should be prosecuted, as I would if I did not obey the law. Our National Athem is for those who bravely defend our county.
I lived in Latin America for nearly eight years. I had to learn their language. It is the same here. I am NOT in favor of Spanish version of the U.S. National Anthem! It has the potential to greatly divide and do harm to our entire country. There are other political and religious groups from other countries who will join in so as to disrupt and ultimately try to destroy the United States of America. My latin / hispanic friends are doing more harm than they can possibly imagine. They are being USED by groups that do not hold America’s interest to heart!
Oh and by the way, while you’re marching just keep heading due south. ps …I strongly agree with #27 and 28.
It has occurred to me that those in northern states may not realize the extent to which America has already become bilingual, in the sense that many ads for jobs in Florida include “bilingual”, meaning English and Spanish, as a requirement or a “preference” (a de facto requirement). This includes government jobs. Presumably, this is also the case in the states bordering Mexico.
For those defending “bilingual” as a good thing – if the illegals were bilingual, the language problem would not exist. Let’s encourage Bilingual Illegal Immigrants!
Seriously, many immigrants claim that their opportunities to learn English are limited. Perhaps we could, perhaps we should, do something about this.
I suggest that interested readers visit “www.usenglish.org”. The goals of that organization are limited, but they would be, at least, a step in the right direction. It seems that they have already made an attempt to address the question of English in the recent attempt at an Immigration bill. A good place for it. Since Congress is trying again on the Immigration bill, perhaps we should assist the U.S. English folks in their effort by writing our Congressfolk and the President. Keep in mind that each of us is represented in Congress by one Representative and two Senators. You can find out how to contact them, and the President, at “www.congress.org” – just provide your Zip Code.
ok steve…one day you might realize you have been fooled…but i’m not holding my breath….as capitalists you can’t blame the people of mexico seeking a better life…as capitalists you must place blame on the companies and americans that are supporting illegal immigration by hiring illegal immigrants!!!! If there were no jobs the people would not come…..the reason there is a flow of illegal immigrants is basically supply/demand economics….the same reason you can’t ever win the war on drugs…because of the demand..you will never fix the immigration population until you punish those that are causing the problem…the american businesses that pay these people under the table…once you stop that…you will fix the problem…i am amazed that no one has brought this up!!!!!
well i guess my last post didn’t work..what i tried to say was…until you punish and convict american businessmen that hire illegal immigrants..you will never stop the supply…this is capitalism…supply and demand people…same reason you will never win the war on drugs…so…to stop immigration you must take away the one thing they come here for…money…and who is paying them…american businesses….i can’ believe no one has brought this up!!!
I get upset when I hear about “Immigration Reform” If they don’t respect the laws we now have dealing with immigration what is there for me to expect that they will respect any new laws? ”The real problem is enforcement of our current laws. We have a program for guest workers it’s called a “Green Card” you get them by coming here legally.
President Regan’s ones mistake was that he gave a general amnesty while he was in office in the ‘80s. It might have worked, except they didn’t secure the border then like they were suppose to, Now years later there is a cry for another general amnesty. Hell NO!
I as an American am offended every time I go to a ATM machine and it asks Spanish or English. Every time I call a service center and it ask me to press blank for English or blank for Espanola. How may other countries ask if you want the instructions in English or what ever?
I say come here legally. Learn enough of the language before you get here so that you can get by and start to blend in. Keep learning it once you get here. If you want to keep your Spanish heritage then Stay in Mexico, Demand reform there, or go back to Spain see if they will take you.
After all if our ancestors stole this land then your ancestors stole the Mexican lands. The difference being is that our ancestors made something of this great land. They forged the greatest nation on earth. Made up of people from all over the world who want a part of this great dram. How came here legally. If you what to become law abiding citizens then go back to where you came from and come here legally become citizens and then vote.
Yes vote legally for then changes you would like to see,
This is just making me sick to my stomach that this is happening. This is AMERICA and not mexico. The national anthem wasnt made for spanish. We had and still have people fighting for this country and there are people that want to disrespect those people who paid the ultimate sacrifice for this country. If they want to live in this country, They should learn how to speak ensglish, But alot of them dont and dont want to either. For those who dont, Why dont you get out of the country.
there is no problem withspeaking 2 languages 4usana but its those who will not learn enflish…tjats why everything comes in 2 languages. maybe for entertainment purposes this is okay but where doed it stop and whats next? an asian language to satisfy the very large asian community off the country?! please.
I did a little research and found that there are at least five older versions of the National Anthem in Spanish. They are quite beatiful and dignified. The National Anthem has also been translated more than once into French, German, Yiddish and even Samoan. There are serious problems. Why are we getting letting ourselves get so worked up about this?
Someone from a previouos post asked: “How may other countries ask if you want the instructions in English or what ever?”
Actually, that happens all over the rest of the world where people are much more educated than they are here.
To all Illegal Immigrants,
Either learn the English language like immigrants from other countries did, or GET OUT! This is the United States and our primary language is ENGLISH! Sure you can speak Spanish with your family and friends, but dont change our National Anthem and try and make the new primary language spanish! It’ll just make more Americans look down on you!
I dont see what all the Fuzz is all about. The National Anthem has been sang in many ways. After all, the darn thing started as a bar song, for gods sake. By the way, Many a Latino has fought for this country, and this war is not any exception. First US casualty in Iraq happened to has been a foreign emigrant (LATINO) holding a green card. So dont give us your whimpering excuses. Rejoice the Latinos living in this country intended to Honor our country, by introducing a new twist on our National physique. By the way, I am a Nam vet. Just relax, enyoy it..and sing along with us…SI SE PUEDE!
One doesn’t change time honored music and lyrics. The Bach-Gounod “Ave Maria” is ALWAYS sung in Latin, the language that it was written in; not in French, Spanish, or Chinese to accomodate the listeners. If immigrants never learn another word of English, they could at least make an effort to learn our National Anthem in English if they care at all.
Furthermore, Mexican immigrants would do far more for their families and country of origin if they protested in MEXICO, not here, for a better government that could provide for their needs and create jobs for them without them having to leave their homes and families at great risk and peril to get what they need in another country. They are only making things easy for their “Do-Nothing”,failed Mexican government and not for themselves or their families and they are perpetuating their homeland as a third world impoverished failure unable to sustain its people.
The answer to these kinds of problems lies in making Mexico, Brazil, Equador, Nicaragua, etc. into viable places to live with good standards of living for their people. The answer does NOT lie in trying to move the entire populations of those countries into the United States,stretching our resourses to the limit and creating a third world country here. If Latinos really want better conditions for their families, the should be working within their own nations to improve their lot rather than abandoning ship.
Why is it that we don’t find 12 million Canadians flocking into the USA? Because their nation provides for it’s citizens and so should the Latin-American countries.
Bob Pavlick
This does not help the illegal immigrants cause at all. Most Americans have already set their feeling on the matter and this just threw it inn their faces. I really think this will be the beginning of the end on this subject as their will be a lot of pressure placed on the leaders of this country to do something about it and I don’t think it will be as favorable as it would have been if the immigrants and especially the leaders of Mexico is trying to shove it down our thoughts.
They may be here, but not to stay, so get used to it
I think it is hilarious when I hear “Americans” rant and rave over patriotism and how this is “our land”. It has been said before and I will say it again: The “Americans” that live here ARE ALL immigrants. The only difference about when the Colombians, French etc. come to the USA and when the English came here is that the English came and SLAUGHTERED the original people that lived on this land (that’s why they are called native americans!). By the way, I seem to have forgotten the names of the cities on the west coast of the United States of America. Oh yea, Los Angeles, Aliso Viejo, Arroyo Grande, Alturas, Del Mar, Palo Alto, Monterey, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica. Whoa, what’s going on? Is this English? Oh no, wait, it’s Spanish. How is that possible?? Blasphemy!! Spanish in the United States of America? Maybe it is so because the Spanish people were there, well at least they were there until they were either killed or sent away. And now your lovely President Bush is invading OTHER countries and killing innocent children because . . . huh, I don’t know why! Does anyone know why? Maybe it’s because of the oil? Or maybe it’s because it seems that the motto for the United States is “kill all that have what we want, even the innocent”. As an endpoint, why are you asking immigrants to learn English and learn the National Anthem in the English version? Most Americans cannot even speak English correctly! As I can see, in this forum alone, you can’t even spell correctly! And it is incredible how many “Americans” cannot sing the National Anthem in English, because they don’t even know the words! I would like all the “Americans” to right now sing the National Anthem in their own living rooms, by themselves, a capella (in case you don’t know what that means, it means ‘without music’). Try it! Yea, that’s what I thought. There has been research of how much do “Americans” now about their “own” country. Most of the ADULT “Americans” cannot name the first five Presidents of the United States, even the first one! While at the same time all around the world CHILDREN could name every single one of them! Isn’t that sad?
Dear Luke, wake up and smell the coffee beans. You are definitely “Brainwashed”. That is all I can think of because of your plight. You sound like a politician. You are MAKEING EXCUSES FOR WHAT ILLEGALL ALIENS DO. You blame America for it. The fact of the matter is that, there is a right way and a wrong way to do things. Illegal means against the law. The Illegals, and I Feel Led To Explain This To You, are criminals “OF THERE OWN CHOICE”. And you blame America for it…….They steal identities and assume other peoples lives, or make them up as they go along, or use a deceased persons identity, and then cry foul, when they are caught. How quickly they forget they are “Criminals”. For your own Immigrant Edification, and I feel led once again to explain this to you, I am talking Illegals, straight across the board. Lifestyles at the expense of others??? I guess you are happy that thousands of Legal Immigrants pay wages have gone down to slave wages, due to Illegal Immigration. Your ok, with that aren’t you. You probbaly think it is ok, to have undocumented workers running around abusing this country reaping all the benefits until they are caught and then, just simply changing their names to do it again, or double their benefits. They know the system has loopholes. But let me guess Luke, it is Americas fault, right? Well, my misguided luke….I wouldnt doubt it if you were a co-writer to the Nation Dividing Bootleg Anthem. Remember…..United We Stand And Divided We Fall. Illegals, are Dead Set On Dividing the country. They have no Idea how they have disturbed the Hornets Nest……Luke and others like him with his brainwashed ideaology, LEAVE AMERICAS CITIZENS NATIONAL ANTHEM ALONE. GO HOME. BELIEVE ME THIS COUNTRY WILL GET BY WITHOUT YOU…….
I say we should vote on the issue and go with the majority, like we do with everything else.
My husband is in the Army and we have traveled all over the world I have not heard any other country put their national anthem in english just because alot of americans live there. Also to those of you who thinks this has any thing to do with those who are bilingual, it doesnt. I think it is wonderful to know more than one language, But when you have people who are coming over here illegaly and demanding medical, welfare and food stamps, and now taking our National Anthem and making a spanish version and changing half of the origanal verses, to be easier to sing is ridiculus. We need to stop providing Illegal Immigrants with free food and Medical and maybe they wouldnt have such an easy time here
oh my GOD!!! ….U … “AMERICANS” dont know what the …. u guys r talking about! (im 1/2 Black,1/2 Mexican & LEGAL) FIRST of all…their is NO “NATIVE” language, since “UR” language is MADE UP of MORE than 6 other languages!!! This LAND of “URS” was TAKEN by FORCE by UR Ancestors! …The “National Anthem” in Spanish is NOT!!! Meant to REPLACE the english version! U EDIOTS!!! …U Should be HONORED that Another Culture WANTS to Sing “ur” national anthem in their OWN Luving Language! WHY do u guys have to make such a big deal over nothing! ALWAYS trying to start sumthing, ANITHING!…as long as it would get rid of all these “ILLIGAL” immigrants. OH…N many of u are saying “MY ANCESTORS CAME HERE LEGALLY”…blah,blah,blah. well guess what. THEY DIDNT! ur just trying to make an excuse for U being here, In A FOREIGN LAND!…that DOES NOT belong to “YOU”! STOP …. trying to start sumthin! Maybe if u guys WERENT to …. REDNECKS,Jerks,RACIST, others people,NOT JUST HISPANICS, but EUROPEAN,BRITISH,MIDDLE EASTERNS,ASIAN, & AFRICANS, wouldnt HATE u so much. How about U STOP watching UR Celebrities Wash their teeth, & ACTUALLY get URSELFS EDUCATED for a change!
Bunch of crying babies,So what our American Anthem is sang in Spanish.I love the Anthem in english and spanish.Lets ask the Canadians if their anthem was in french,Would they cry in their pillow everynight and say,Oh Canada what has come of you. And if you think it is all about the ILLEGAL ALIENS or TERRORISTS.Lets ask the native americans their opinion.
American anthem sang in spanish,O.K.well whats all the hoop la.I love America I support our troops.I heard the song,sounds good.doesn’t mean were gonna go ahead and make it the new official god loving english anthem.Bush should call the mexican president and work out a better relationship with his countries neighbors.So if a canadian sings our anthem are we gonna tell their primeminister to go … ? Let’s worry about Iran and North Korea. I am more scared of Terrorist and crazy mad men with nukes than,desperate family members trying to survive by comeing to our land of oppurtunity.Just do it right.
The United States National Anthem should be subg in ENGLISH, the language it was written in.
TRACY
lenmills@sfagc.org says the FLoida Contractors are going broke because ILLEGALS are not showing up for work…
Hey drop him a line and ask him -why he can hire Americans… does he want his grandkids not to be able to have a job because an illegal immigrant who SNUCK in will do thejob for less…
Wake LEN UP with email telling him what you think of his hiring practices.. and if he is hiring ILLEGALS should he not be going to jail for breaking the law?
My family came here legally and I do not think all those who come to the US illegally should be given the right to citizenship. Many immigrate to the US and they work hard to gain their citizenship, why should we make an exception!
Why is it that Hispanics or Latinos would get this preferencial treatment. Those who come to the US illegally should be sent back and I don’t care what country they come from!
For the strike on Monday, that is the most ridiculous idea I’ve ever heard. Adults are actually encouraging their children to walk out of school when education is the most important part of a child’s life! These parents and the organizations who support this is not being reasonable!
Also, why are these folks complaining. The illegal immigrants are taking advantage of the tax payers’ money. They do not pay income taxes yet, they take advantage of medical and other social benefits. One comment I heard is that they do pay for sales taxes. How stupid that comment is! What does sales tax pay for? What I have a big problem is when I needed social benefits, I was turned down, yet, the Mexican lady with 4 kids was able to get them. What kind of discrimination is that. In fact, the lady did not even speak English.
Lastly, translating the American National Anthem to Spanish is not a sign of pride or unity, it is a crime! The National Anthem has been around for many many years! It is a symbol of the American people. No one, has the right to mar this symbol. The composer who did this should be sent to jail. This is way beyond the right to free speech. This is a libelous act against what America stands for. If someone does not speak or understand English, they need to learn it!
How would the Mexican government feel if we translated their National Anthem to English or used their country flag and burned it. It is the same idea!
If you are really upset about the national anthem being translated into another language, you’re probably a racist, because there is no rational reason to be offended. There is nothing special about English, which just happened to be the language of the foreign country that colonized this land most successfully. English is by far the most common language spoken in the U.S., but Spanish is also widely spoken here, as are other languages. Why shouldn’t people who can’t speak English enjoy the song? Having a common language is convenient, but there’s nothing sacred about it. By the way, being born here isn’t much of a reason to be proud or feel special. I was born here, but that’s just because my parents happened to live here at the time.
Just thought I would impart some information to some of you. This spanish language version is not the brainchild of illegal immigrants. This new version was the idea of a british man and among the spanish singers contributing their voices are Puerto Rican singers Carlos Ponce and Olga Tanon. Let me repeat that: PUERTO RICAN singers. For those of you who are unaware, Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States, all of its citizens are just as much U.S. Citizens as all of us born within the U.S. and Puerto Rico has two official languages- English and Spanish. So before everyone goes off the deep end about how disrespectful this is and write hateful things about immigrants, stop and evaluate who is really responsible. Can you really be upset with a bunch of boricuas singing the anthem in spanish when spanish is just as much the official language in Puerto Rico as English? No, it just stupid. Can you blame the government for trying to turn this into a hot political topic- they need everything they can to prevent the ADHD American Public from remembering the real issues- I don’t care really care one way or another what is done regarding immigration as long at it is done and implemented in a timely manner. I think our country has much bigger problems it should be handling, like the care of our veterans, my husband among the discarded medically discharged marines who has no medical coverage until the VA can “determine his eligibilty for benefits” which can take over a year in our lovely state of California. So quit your b!tching about these trivia social issues and start writing your congressmen if you are really that concerned. Besides, have we all forgotten our protected right to freedom to speak? Just like with flag burning though hearing the anthem in spanish doesn’t seem right to me, I will defend to the death the RIGHT to do it, as should all those affliated with military.
You make a good point Robert, I guess i was under the impression that there are businesses that pay illegal undocumented immigrants under the table. This would be the CAUSE for them to come here, regardless of it being illegal or not. You can’t solve the problem of the movement of people into this country until you identify the reasons they are coming and correct that problem…why are they coming…for money..it is quite simple…who is paying them? our govt from welfare hand outs and businesses in the form of wages. you can deport people all day long, till you are blue in the face…but until you solve the problem i just mentioned the flow of people will never stop! by the way..i don’t think the national anthem should be sung in spanish, it should be sung the way it was written…and i am home right now..i’m an american citizen that lives in texas…and as another poster kind of alluded to this is most likely a diversionary tactic by the media/govt to keep you worried about this instead of the really big problems we are facing right now….our administration…war…price of oil….etc.
I do think everyone here should learn english…but in reality it is very hard to learn to speak a language if you don’t use it…and if most at your place of employment, and the community you live in don’t use english, then in reality it would be pretty hard to learn it. i think people need to be a little more understanding of others. so must hatred going around. it is counterproductive…
As an American Born Hispanic, I bow my head in shame of what these people have done to disgrace our wonderful country. As many have pointed out, if you don’t like the language or customs, then find somewhere else that fits your criteria. Don’t try to change some thing that has established it’s self for hundreds of years and has come to be the greatest nation in the world. We are in America, let love it for what it is, not change it for our selfish laziness in not wanting to adapt to the culture or the language. I think I speak for all conscientious Hispanics that have their head in the right place, CHANGING THE LANGUAGE OF OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM IS LUDICRIS, and for such a foul action I apologize in their name…
The national anthem for any nation is as sacred to their people as their religious beliefs or background. I consider any alteration including language change to our anthem as a slap in the face of every American citizen. I appreciate the comments of D. Perez since I am also the progeny of two different immigrant families (Yugoslavian and Japanese) and agree with him whole-heartedly.
I, too, am surprised at all of the furor over the Spanish interpretation of the National Anthem, which, did, indeed, originate as an English bar song. Further, if you are offended by the origins of patriotic songs, then you should also be aware that the tune of “God Save the King (or Queen) has been appropriated by the United States as “my Country tis of Thee,” etc. Yes, anyone other than native American peoples are in fact thieves of this land. If there was room for you and your ancestors, then there is room for the people who the natural inhabitants of this hemisphere. Further, if you’re stuck on “the European interpretation” of American history, then this hemisphere was first explored by the Spanish. If you’re a real history know-it-all, then you may even credit the Chinese for having visited this hemisphere first. Let’s respect one another as individuals and not depend on accidents of history and overwhelming domination by Europeans to determine who should and should not live here.
I have heard the National Anthem in Spanish and won’t listen to it again nor will I listen to the stations that are playing it. It does not follow the English version. Protocol dictates that an anthem is sung in the language of the country you are in. The Olympics are a good example of how protocol works as well. French win an event, French National Anthem, Greek win an event, Greek National Anthem, etc. Protocol also dictates how flags are flown…in the United States, the US flag is always flown the highest with the state flags flown lower. Its about manners and protocols, not immigrants.
I just wanted to add something. I am of hispanic decent. I love my country and feel the anthem should be sung in English only. For those that bash the English that came here before and killed many natives, you are reaping the rewards of that remember…If born Americans are guilty because of their history, so are all that benifit from this great country.
Luke….There you go….responding as we hoped you wouldn’t. We are deeply saddened that you are so intelligent, but miss the point. This Civil War is about to be “Fought Over Our Flag” and not Illegalas……..Look deep, real deep…please…One day you will have a family, and understand…Really What Our Anthem Stands for…….You Missed it by a Mile. You still have a third chance to defend our Anthem. I hope you understand the love behind this message..I forgeve you, for you Know Not What YOU SAY………
Luke, How do you really care? Not enough, I am sure…despite everything else…WOULD YOU LAY YOUR LIFE DOWN FOR THE MEXICAN FLAG????????? I DIDN’T THINK SO………..
First of all I’d like to say that it’s the spanish version not the mexican version and mexicans don’t sing it puerto ricans do so get it straight. I also don’t think it’s a bad idea that people of other nationalities be given the opportunity to understand why we are so damn proud to be Americans. I would love it for my mom to understand why I get goosebumps every time I hear the anthem. As it would be nice for other national anthems to be translated into english, so people who have families that originated from other countries and travel to other countries understand why they are as proud to be who they are, as we are. Everytime I hear the mexican anthem I ask my self why don’t I feel anything if I’m mexican to, but trust me translate it to me in english and I will feel it. So all I’m saying is let people understand it even if it’s in another language, I rather have people understand it, so when they here it in english they know what americans are about. So It’s okay for it to be translated for educational purposes and only that.
Wow. I am surprised by the ignorance in some of these comments. Mexicans this, and Mexicans that. Although I do not agree with the new version of the anthem, we should blame this on Mexicans, illegals? The guy who wrote it is a white British man, and it includes three (possibly four) American citizens of Puerto Rican and Cuban (and possibly Haitian) descent. I don’t see Mexican or illegal in their nationalities. The last time I checked Puerto Rico was a part of the U.S. and even if some of the people don’t know English they are Americans whether you like it or not.
Some of you give us Americans a bad name. My brother fighting in Iraq right now would be ashamed of you all.
Btw, a guy from my old high school died in Iraq. His parents are here illegally. If we deport them, where is the justice in that? Some of us native born won’t serve our country but foreigners (including children of illegals) will? His last name is Gonzalez and he was the 10/11th death in May 2003. Look it up.
First of all the native people were here first. This land that you call America was stolen from them. In that respect, everyone who lives here is an illegal immigrant since those natives were never given any consent as to who would come over to their land. Do you know what makes these people ILLEGAL immigrants; its laws made by the people and the descendants of the people who stole this land from them. Who are they to decide who is an illegal immigrant and who isn’t.
The native people were a very diverse people with different langugaes and cultures. If there should be an anthem then who more then them deserves to have one sung in their different languages. Think about that!
I think we Americans should look to those Canadians as an example. They have a system of acceptance that we don’t have. They like people to express their different cultural heritage while we expect other people to assimilate into our culture; a culture that is a creation of money hungry corporations, corrupt politicians and drunk psychologically scarring celebrities. When do the people actually get to decide what elements compose their culture.
i wonder what americans call me…im puerto rican, so does it mean im an imigrant or a legal immigrant? im curious, because have many have stated, this is not american land as it was taken by force. we are all immigrants. and i really cant believe that the world has come down to this, God bless americans in this time, because i believe he would have want everyone to be treated equally, and americans dont follow that.
i wonder whose going to do the things that immigrants do if they are kicked out of the country.
and one more thing, YOU GO SPANISH SINGERS
I am all for LEGAL immigrants. There are many many people that came here the proper way through proper channels. The people that came here Illegally are ILLEGALS! What part of ILLEGAl don’t these idiots understand. Trying to cram our National Anthem translated into spanish is the last straw. ALL ILLEGALS should be caught and immediately deported. A fence/wall should be built and all immigration laws enforced. If Mexico is such a great place and Spanish such a great language they should be more than happy to go home. Why don’t you take all of the energy you have protesting and change you’re own governments in your own native lands. When will these politicians get it? As for “La Raza” – you’re nothing more than a bunch of racists trying to re-conquer our lands. Well, perhaps Spain should re-conquer your lands!
Down with The National Anthem in Spanish!
It is totally arrogant and disrespectful to sing any countries national anthem in another language. But to make matters worse this is a poorly translated version and is not even close enough to be called a Spanish version. It is a pro immigration song set to the tune of the national anthem.
I don’t know why people get so angry by this issue.First of all,I don’t like any display of patriotism by any side, but I think americans lead their lives by an idea of ‘ownership’. This is mine and i don’t want you to touch it. I decide what you can touch or not touch.There are things that are sacred for us and you cannot touch even if i allow you living here. You can go to Iraq and die for united states but you cannot sing the anthem in spanish. These are my rules. Take them or go. But in spanish we say : No hay más ciego que el que no quiere ver(=There is no one more blind than he who doesn’t want to see).
Spanish is the language that was spoken before the first ship (Mayflower) arrived in united states’ shores.(of course not the whole land that US is today but big part and there were natives before spaniards,ok.)
As someone said before it was already translated into spanish. Check out:
http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cocoon/ihas/loc.natlib.ihas.100000007/default.html
I think you see spanish as a competitor and not as yours. That is to say, spanish doesn’t belong to you so, by this logic, you cannot sing ‘our anthem’ in spanish. Well there is a conservatism wave in USA I really don’t like. But of couse ,it is up to you. I think you would like this parody about marriage(feel the idea i have about conservatism in usa) in spanish. Check out and have fun: http://www.nomiresmtv.com/php/video2.php?id=3
José — That video was a riot. If I see it one more time, I won’t be able to get that tune out of my mind!
First, regarding comment number four “Mexican” is not a language but a new population and identity coming as a result of Spandiars and Indigenous people from Mesoamerica.
Second, how are we better when we stole half of Mexico less than 200 years ago. We fight so Jews people can have their land back but we do not care about giving/selling back former mexican land to their people? We came to their lands and did not respect their catholic religion, neither their laws. Rich and powerful people came to these land to appropriate for ourselves. So how are we better? how can we talk about arrogance when we fit the same measure?
I just want to clear something up. THE NATIONAL ANTHEM DID NOT START AS A BAR SONG.
The national anthem started as a poem written by a man who watched the war in 1812 from a British ship where he was being held “semi” prisoner. The whole focal point of the poem, as the smoke from bombs cleared, was his constant efforts to see if “our flag was still there”. It’s of absolutely NO importance that the poem was set to a popular British drinking song, BECAUSE back in those days it was COMMON PRACTICE to reuse melodies.
“In the early 1800’s musical instruments and performances were not common in America. Music was generally imported from Europe, and popular tunes were frequently re-used as foundations for other lyrics. As an example, Maryland’s state song, “Maryland, My Maryland” can be recognized as the German tune, “O Tannenbaum” (Oh Christmas Tree). Francis Scott Key used this English drinking song to set the meter of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
I live in Florida where more and more my “home” is being invaded by people who want to speak Spanish instead of English. The huge numbers in which they are flocking here make it possible for them to refrain from learning English. Businesses have to hire bilengual (English/Spanish) to accomodate the non English speakers. I was TURNED DOWN for a job because I cannot speak Spanish. The employer was disappointed, saying that he wanted to hire me, that I was qualified, but he needed someone that could speak spanish.
So. That’s how it goes. As far as keeping wages low, I’ve seen that phenomenon in the last 20 years. They are quite satisfied to work for lowered wages because usually they have a group of their relatives residing with them and find do not find it difficult to pay the rent (that is becoming outrageous BECAUSE renters have found that they can ask higher rent because…)
It’s a cycle. We fought hard here to get decent wages, and we fought to get minimum wage increased in keeping with inflation. IF THERE WERE NO ONE WILLING TO WORK FOR THESE LOWER WAGES, EMPLOYERS WOULD ADJUST WAGES TO ATTRACT WORKERS. Some people say that employers would then hike up the price of their goods to adjust for having to pay higher wages. Sure, but then they would lower them again to a price that people are willing to pay.
It is a constant struggle that is now being disrupted by a whole new group of people that know so little about us, that they don’t even understand what an afront it is to change the wording of our National Anthem and then sing it in Spanish – in America!
For all hispanics who do not understand what the strife is all about concerning the mangling of our National Anthem, go to this link here and then objectively decide if it is right to use our National Anthem for the cause that it’s being pimped for. Decide if it’s right to change ANYTHING ABOUT it.
LOL. geegee said we should vote on it and go with the majority. Well I’m scared. Cos the majority of people down here in Florida are spanish speaking. – also, since I’ve been looking up more and more about the war of 1812, it’s conjured images of war… If we ever had to fight a country from which any of our current illegal immigrants are from, would thos immigrants fight with us? or against us.
For the young 17 year old Puerto Rican who does not know what he/she is considered: You are recognized by the US Government whether you where born in the US or in Puerto Rico as a US citizen. This right was given to Puerto Ricans in 1917. As a commonwealth of the US, we celebrate Independence Day on the 4th of July like every other American, because we too are proud to be American.
To my fellow American Citizens: While one may not agree with a Spanish version of our national anthem, this great country of ours allows for freedom of speech and freedom of expression. I see personally see the release of this song as a music executive’s idea to turn a profit at the expense of immigrants of Hispanic descent. There are very strong emotions right now within our country because of the sudden awareness of the growing problem of immigration. Reforms need to be made regarding immigration and a better job of enforcement needs to be implemented- we should be urging our congressmen to take action.
For all of you people making insanely insulting remarks about Mexicans: Have you no sense? What good does it do any of us to make stereotypic statements about a group of people? There is no good coming from it. We have enough going on in our great nation; there is no need to make such racist comments. You are just becoming part of the fuel to prejudices in this country. And just for the few really ignorant ones: No one is trying to change the language of this country to Spanish. Can you people seriously believe that the United States is going to become a Spanish speaking nation because of a song? Get real!
For all the foolish people planning on boycotting on Monday: Think about what you are doing! You are proving nothing with this action; you are simply helping fuel the fire of hatred towards all of those of Mexican descent. You don’t need me to tell you this- just read some of the posts above. People will make generalizations at the drop of a hat. If you really want reform, then realize that the responsibility falls in the hands of those who are already citizens to do something. It is foolish to ostracize the very people who can help you get the reforms you need!
Mick said: It is a pro immigration song set to the tune of the national anthem.
He’s helped me put into word what is engraging about the “new” anthem.
It is a pro illegal immigration song made from changing our Nation Anthem, and then after changing it, they turned around and called it OUR National Anthem sang in Spanish. – Some people think that it was only a translation helps non english speakers to understand the words of our anthem. NOT TRUE. The first verse has nothing to do with the war of 1812 or the men that died there, or the reflections of the emotions of Francis Scott Key as he watched our country being bombed.
to A fellow American and Puerto Rican – You are right that the Spanish Star Spangled Banner is just a music executive’s idea to turn a profit at the expense of immigrants of Hispanic descent. And (is it?) Kitron (?) knew that the way to get every one’s attention was to use a symbol of our country that was most dear to people that feel patriotism for this land. He could have just made up a whole new song to advance the cause, but he knew that would have had the impact that this does.
What Jerold Erixen doesn’t understand is that Nuestra Himno is not a translation. It CHANGES the lyrics.
It doesn’t say the same thing. It doesn’t represent the same people.
If they had only sung the Star Spangled Banner in spanish, that would have been enough of seperatist action to show themselves not a true seeker of being an american.
But you see, Mr. Airickson, to change something is truly to not respect it. I am sure Jairold can see my point now.
A few others that might see the point now are,
Looke at http://www.myspace.com/liftedsounds
Suzanna Gawllardoe at http://www2.sjsu.edu/faculty/gallardo
that should be “… he knew that it would NOT have had the impact…”
A fellow American… – You said, “Can you people seriously believe that the United States is going to become a Spanish speaking nation because of a song?” I don’t know about US becoming a Spanish speaking nation, but I can tell you from experience, that if the way it’s changed down here in Florida in the last 20 years is at all indicative of the way it could go in many other states, then English-only speaking people WILL HAVE to learn Spanish to properly compete for jobs, or to be able to walk into a convenient store and ask directions, or communicate effectively with a Walmart employee….
One simple little thing enrages people (English-only speakers) that grew up here. And that is to have to learn another language to accommodate someone that comes from somewhere else, and doesn’t respect the people here enough to learn English. Parts of the constitution says that English is to be our common language. I think the freedom of speach thing means that you are supposed to be allowed to say what you want, but evidently you have to say it in English.
On the one hand, it only makes sense that people are able to effectively communicate through a common language. We all have to be able to have effective communication just for business to be conducted. (it’s nice too in an emergency type situation that people speak the same language.)
If I move to France, I would certainly respect France enough to learn the language and become FRENCH. Because it’s like I would be a stranger moving into someone’s home and I would never show disrespect by disregarding the language they use for communication. I would never move to another country just because I wanted to live on that land. That would be like ignoring the nation that already lives there.
If you think you are special because you were born here or because you grew up in an English-speaking household (2 circumstance over which you had no control) then you don’t have a lot else going for you. And I don’t care if you are half Mexican, three-quarters Japanese or were born in Belgrade – if you are genuinely offended because someone sings your precious anthem in another language, you are probably motivated by racism, because there is no rational reason to be upset. Why shouldn’t people express their love of their country in any language they want? I hope an Arab American translates the anthem into Arabic. I’ll bet that would get you xenophobes really riled up!
Why didn’t the Immigrants from Europe to came to this country in late 1800 & 1900 change our National Anthem to Irish,German,Italian,French,Greek etc? Because they knew this was a English speaking country.& Since they had Intelligence, they knew they would be Hated.unlike the people with little Intellect who ran across our borders.
I don’t not believe in immigration, I think that is part of what makes America great. We have a great diversity of cultures and peoples. This is not just about people of mexican descent, but people from all countries who want to come here. They are making it more and difficult for everyone else who should have an equal opportunity to be here.
Latin immigrants are like no other. We descend from countries a short drive away. America is the land of the free, and as free people we will sing the national anthem in any of the many languages we speak.
What makes America great is not that white Puritans protected for themselves certain individual liberties, it is that despite their tendencies, we have forced those protections to apply to everyone.
So if we are truly free, and in 45 years hispanics are the majority, and we feel like making Spanish the new official language, then majority rule has taken place, and that is the most American outcome you can imagine.
Suck it in, it’s the tip of the iceberg. If it were a French version, instead of being offended, you would be studying French and singing along.
You know I’m right, too.
It’s all about communication, It’s all about fear and love . We can live in fear but you can choose to live in love,too. Fears can stop you loving. You say why do i(American) have to learn another language if i live here and here English is spoken .Well, you don’t have to! . I’m pretty sure you can manage in your life without knowing spanish.I advise you not to mix with them. You don’t need to go where they are. Don’t need to listen to music in spanish, nor hear the radio nor watch any tv in spanish. Of course even less hear them sing the anthem in spanish or you better cover your ears to show that you don’t agree with that. If you don’t want to have any relationship with them , don’t even try to learn their language. You’ll feel better. It’s as simple as that.Even so you cannot bear it,you really got a problem.i’m sorry.
I like spanish for several reasons, the main of course because it’s my native language, but I like English too. And,of course, there are other languages all over the world that deserve the same respect. I suppose hispanics are trying to do their best to integrate into American society (I saw it in the rallies held some days ago).This is not always easy(Even they are dying for America,aren’t they?).But integration doesn’t mean having to lose their heritage. After all, their ancestors arrived there some centureis ago. In spain we expelled the Jews in the 15th century(‘reasons’ are in the history) and i am ashamed for that. I hope you won’t fall into the same mistake. As Martin Luther King said “Hemos aprendido a volar como los pájaros y a nadar como los peces, pero no hemos aprendido el sencillo arte de vivir juntos como hermanos”.
I suppose they don’t want to change ‘your national Anthem’ . It’s yours and noone can take it from you. As I said they want to integrate it their way. And yes, in my opinión they have mangled the American anthem but it is just one point of view. Not all Hispanics like the idea of singing the American anthem in spanish. But after all, who wants to sing an anthem? . In spain we don’t even have lyric for our anthem and we are so happy!. I think this issue will dissapear with time when there is nobody who wants to sing it and i hope this will happen soon.
SI SE QUIERE, SE PUEDE.
To all those who think it is ok, to “Rewrite” The American National Anthem…..Please send me your national flag, so I can hang it upside down from my roof, let’s see if you get offended……Yeah I knew you would
Jose Mari, Thanks for the MLK quote. Very well placed.
King also dreamed that we would judge each other by the content of our character and the not the color of our skin.
It is here we should be careful. Among the well-intentioned Hispanics is the memory of towns where corruption and lack of faith in public institutions prevail.
We can’t have that in the U.S. There must be an end to illegal immigration and a one-time legitimization of the interior illegals. If you come to this country, your respect the rule of law.
This is the only essential thing to assimilate in the United States without exception. Everything else is fleeting and a matter of opinion (like anthem languages, who the historical heroes really are, and other silly things).
Let’s judge each other by the content of our individual character and nothing else, and we’ll be just fine.
Be well,
Juan
Kyp — It’s been a busy weekend, and I have yet to hear the song in its entirety (only very short snippets). So at this point, I don’t how good of a translation this new song is, or if it should be considered merely a loose interpretation or even an “inspired by” song. The nature of the lyrics will determine to some extent how people react to it, and certainly I will have a better perspective on the song once I hear it in its entirety.
Two points from above:
1. The national anthem was a poem put to the music of a borrowed old English drinking song.
2. The words of this anthem have been changed. It’s really just a poem sung to the music of our national anthem.
Hey–wait a minute.
As a first generation U.S. born (1965) Cuban-American, I am very proud to be an American and very generous and grateful thet my parents came here (LEGALLY) in the 50’s and are U.S. citizens. But, I am ashamed of this whole Spanish version of the National Anthem. Yeah, I know, our ancestors “stole” this country, but that was nearly 300 years ago with no rules, laws, or regulations. The world was growing then, but this is different. To change a nations National Anthem like this is Un-American, Non-Patriotic and a total lack of respect. I am totally ashamed and absolutely against this “vandalism” of our National Anthem.
I agree that the National Anthem should be in English only. I also don’t see any problem in translating it (as the original discussion) to help people that don’t yet know English to help them understand what the national anthem is all about. Those that object to that are rediculous. But, it should only be sung in English.
But when I read the words of this Nuestro Himno, I don’t see our National Anthem. This is “A” Spanish hymn espousing pride at being an American and there is nothing wrong with that. We should have a ‘I’m proud to be an American’ for all first generation Americans that they can sing in their native tongue (as they are learning English), but just not THE National Anthem.
I am concerned a bit about this ’spanish hymn’ being used by “illegals”, in that it should be comdemned but I see nothing wrong with having a Spanish, Korean, Vietnam, Hungarian, etc. hymm about thier love of being new Americans.
All you who can’t stand a Spanish version of the National Anthem are living in denial.
As we approach becoming half of the U.S. population, and then the majority, we support the rest of you in seeking therapy and taking your time to adjust.
America belongs to all who can become U.S. citizens. There is no demographic or linguistic requirement in the Constitution.
The writing is on the wall, so get used to it. Anglo’s today get to describe being American to the rest of us because they are in the majority.
When that changes, Hispanics will explain what being a U.S. citizens really means to the rest of you.
My advice: Learn Spanish because the next generation of Americana is an internationalist American who speaks English, Spanish, and a foreign language or two.
A Hispanic President is just years away.
Buenas Noches mis Queridos Hermanos.
Que viva la Constitucion Americana.
Hey. It’s just a translation, not a decree. Because two or three people thought it was cool to sing the American national anthem is Spanish, it does not mean that there is a conspiracy to make Spanish the official U.S. language. This is going too far. And for your information, immigrants from Spanish speaking countries are adopting English at a much faster rate than any early wave of European immigrants. It took several generations for Germans, Italians, Polish, etc to fully adopt English as their primary language. Most second-generation Latinos use English as their primary language and a great majority of the third generation is monolingual (English only). Just in case, the immigrant generation is regarded as the first generation, and even within this first generation, a great percentage is are fully bilingual. SO, Spanish is losing, not gaining territory, especially if you consider that today 60 percent of Latinos are U.S. born.
The people who sang the anthem in Spanish offended many people, including the President, but I don’t think this was the intended purpose. It is interesting, however, to see how many Americans, who can’t even sing by heart the lyrics of their own national anthem, use this issue to make xenophobic remarks.
You make a good point, but you miss the broader point.
The new immigrants are picking up English faster, yes, but they are not abandoning Spanish. Unlike before, some U.S. Citizens spend pretty much the same time with first cousins in, say, Colombia, as they do with first cousins three states away. And in different languages.
No direct European immigrant found use outside the home for the “old” language. Not so today.
It’s not xenophobic to describe steady but certain demographic realities. What will be the new majority knows it today standing in the minority.
Defending the United States will ultimately become our burden as the country does and should reflect the character of its majority (like today with the Anglo influence)
This is not about an agenda. It’s about the fact that over time, countries change, and countries are made of people with ideas, not ideas painted on a 200-year old canvas.
well robert you made me laugh…like comedy central does…i guess i can’t really comment much more on the present issue since i’m obviously ignorant about it…that having been said…I didn’t realize that this new version actually changed the lyrics and then used the same music…that is pretty bad…if someone was to take a beatles song …and cover it with diff lyrics i would say “hang them high”!!!no pun intended….at this point i have concluded after much thought over many beers that this whole thing is ridiculous…who here plays the national anthem when they are just kicking it with there friends…no one…or when you are at your house alone killing time…no one…national athems are obsolete…what matters in this world….now..today…is that people need to 1. calm down…2. stop killing each other and 3. try to put yourself in the others shoes…i know this will come across as naive…but if you think about it..it makes sense…i guess i don’t see the crime in someone wanting to live here….now i know according to our laws it is a crime…you will say well this is a democracy..run by elected officials that represent the public who voted for them…but in reality we very few choices when it comes time to cast our vote…so it is pick the best of the worst time once again…basically to get your ideas to the public you have to have large sums of money…so this instantly eliminates anyone who doesn’t have the economic resources to get his/her point to the american people…i hope you see what i’m getting at…now where do politicians get the money…from donations…by whom? well sure some individuals..but most of the revenue comes from corporations…so who are our elected officials accountable to…us..the people…or nonhuman entitys called corporations that are pure profit driven machines without morals or a conscience…
Dear Mr. President, if this Blog should make it to your desk, Please pass the Illegal Immigrant Bill. Please Mr. President, do not water it down. Why is it Illegals who are criminals, get away with crime? And now they want to be rewarded for it? Please put an end to it. How dare we allow them to continue the carnage. They must learn to regard our Anthem as sacred. It is ours (Citizens)…from all nations. It just isn’t right, but of course Illegals just don’t seem to care, why should they….
If you are going to live in a country, then repect that country’s traditions and laws. If you are going to come to our county – AMERICA – come legally – learn ENGLISH, wave American’s flag and sing American’s National Anthem as it should be sung. I am offended, as an American, that any group of people would attempt to be disrespectal to our Anthem.
Our county is a melting pot of nationalites. American is the land of opportunity. But America will not be America, if what we stand for is torn down and changed!!!!!
If a person from another country wants to leave their native land and choose to come to American, then they should enter this country legally, accept our laws, learn our language, and accept our traditions.
If they want to reserve some of their heritage, that is their personal choice, but leave America’s laws and traditions ALONE!!!!!
A person comes over here because they want what we have – so —- become a citizen, learn our language, work as a citizen, pay taxes as a citizen, obey the laws as a citizen, proudly wave America’s Flag and sing America’s National Anthem in ENGLISH!
Every notice that the most hateful comments always come from the least literate people?
Would mexicans (or the government of Mexico) approve of a version of their national anthem in English? I think not! Being a former Mexican, I assure you it would be extremely offensive to them.
Here are some new words in English for their mexican national anthem. I you know the music, you can then sing it and understand it better
Mexican Anthem in English
All these Mexicans crossing the border
‘cause their country will give them no jobs.
Rio Grande or Tijuana will do it,
On their way to Chicago or L.A.
Rio Grande or Tijuana will do it,
On their way to Chicago or L.A.
Choir
May be I should respect this Country
I would not like you singing mine in English
Shouldn’t we instead be learning your language
If I want to be part of this Land.
Viva Mexico why do I shout?
When I had to come here to earn pesos
Shouldn’t I sing the US anthem in English?
If I badly do want to stay here.
If I badly do want to stay here.
by Anonymous American
Yes, I came from Mexico and worked very hard to be part of this wonderful country. I am an American now.
This is very hard for me as it is for every latin-american in the U.S.A. today. I am Puerto Rican and I grew up cycling from US to PR plenty of times. I am currently serving our beautiful nation’s military (US ARMY) and it has not been easy for us hispanics the past couple of weeks. Puertoricans are, by the way, US citizens abroad since birth. Yesterday I could feel the tension on the looks people as we walked through Wal Mart. It is that feeling that you get when you are being singled out. I felt incredibly bad but I kept my head up knowing that I serve my country with pride. I agree with everyone, the national anthem should AND WILL stay in english and everyone else, like my wife and I, have to learn the anthem in its original native language. I just hope that all this comotion ends soon, hispanic polulation that is here LEGALLY is being singled out by people that think they are the pick of the crop when we are all americans. WE ARE ALL AMERICANS!!!
See #78 if you have any more questions.
Juan had a good point that may actually be the source of anger (fear) for many people. The point I refer to is that America is, indeed, evolving, as countries always do. As demographics change, so do politics. I think this is all a fascinating thing to watch. I also think perhaps we’d all better think about learning Spanish if we want to be employable in the future.
Grace #103 Fear, No my friend PASSION. Passion for our Anthem. When our former president Ronald Reagan met the the President of France, Reagan said (because of the language barrier) “You Should Learn English” The President (Of France) Replied: When I am in America I will speak English….When you are in France, I expect you to “Speak French”. How do you think the conversation would have escalated if, Our President then, would have “SAID”….Hey by the way, I had a non citizen outside of France…Re write your Anthem….oh by the way it’s beiing played all over the world as we speak……
P.S. to Grace #103 Our culture is multi-national….I suppose you think we should learn every other language as well?
No, that would not be smart. Look at the classifieds and check out the job requirements. It’s not about me or you, Robert. It’s about change.
Mr. Erichsen,
I would like to compliment you on your 29 April comments on the issue of translating our national anthem into Spanish. I saw your writing as logical and well thought out.
You are a good role model for the use of the English language — in contrast to the radio talk shows and Springer-type shows that, unfortunately, influence so many people.
David
New Mexico
There is no American National Anthem. The United States of America has an anthem, “America” does not.
ok i am mexican i agree with every 1 this was the stupidest idea that any 1 could ever have!!! i was born here in california and now that there are trying to make this stupid law every 1 is being rude 2 mexicans/latinos that is hella … up all latinos come here 4 is 4 jobs cause in mexico there are bearly any jobs but right now is deffently NOT a good time to be making the ational anthem in spanish cause i am 100% sure that we wouldnt like it if they made our national anthem in spanish!!! ppl shouldnt be burning our flags and america use to be mexico!!
Dear Grace…..So what you are really saying,(The devil is in the details)..Is that You and I have to go out of our way now for a bunch of “Criminals”? Grace, It is about you and me as citizens,(that is if you are one), the fact is “All Illegals are Criminals”. Now that the Anthem has been hijacked, you think we should change our language AND laws to facilitate their cause. IT IS ABOUT YOU AND ME AND ALL LAW ABIDING CITIZENS. Speaking a second or third language in this country is “Simply a Courtesy” and nothing more. Spanish is not our way of life…..do you get it?
HEY, WELL I AM MEXICAN, AND IM PROUD TO BE HERE IN THE UNITED STATES. IM 17 YEARS OLD. I AM IN A HURRY SO DONT THINK THAT I AM IGNORANT IF I SPELL SOMETHIN WRONG OR DONT WRTIE OUT THE WORD COMPLETELY CUZ I KNOW U CAN UNDASTAND WAT IM TRYNA SAY. THE FIRST THING THAT IM GOING TO WRITE IS:
I AM SORRY THAT THOSE HISPANIC SINGERS DECIDED TO SING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM IN SPANISH. IT IS A BIG BIG DISRESPECT. I HAVE TO SAY THAT WHEN I FIRST HEARD ABOUT THAT I WAS LIKE … THEY JUST MESSED UP EVERYTHING THAT THESE MARCHES AND PROTESTS WERE TRYING TO ACCOMPLISH.” EVERYONE HAS TO UNDERSTAND SOMETHING THO, WE DONT TALK TO CELEBRITIES, WE CANT TALK TO THEM BECAUSE THEY ARE THESE FAMOUS PEOPLE WHOM U CAN BARELY GET AN AUTOGRAPH FROM BECAUSE THEY ARE ALL OVER THE PLACE. WE CANT GIVE AN OPINION ON WAT WAS GOIN ON. WE JUST HEARD THAT THE SONG WAS GOIN TO BE ON RADIOS AND THAT IT WAS THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AND SPANISH AND THAT WAS MOSTLY IT. WE AS NOT FAMOUS PEOPLE, DIDNT HAVE A WORD WHEATHER OR NOT THEY WERE TO INTERPRET THE SONG IN SPANISH. THEY JUST DID IT. AND GET UR INFORMATION RIGHT, THEY ARE NOT JUST MEXICANS WHO THOUGHT UP THE IDEA, THEY HAD A PRODUCER, AND DIFFERENT SINGERS FROM DIFFERENT PLACES. HAHAH!!! MEXICAN VERSION… DO THEY SAY >>PEOPLE JUST TALK WIT OUT KNOWIN… ALSO WE ARE NOT TRYING TO RELACE THE ANTHEM, NO NO NO, AND IF THOSE SINGERS DECIDED TO PORTAY IT THAT WAY, THEY ARE WRONG, BECAUSE WAT WE ARE TRYING TO DO IS TO BE HERE, WORK AND SUPPORT OUR FAMILIES. PLUS IS NOT LIKE THEY CHANGED THE MEANING TO THE ANTHEM, ITS CALLED A TRANSLATION, IT SINGS TO THE UNITED STATES NOT TO ANY OTHER COUNTRY. PLUS U SHOULD BE PROUD THAT THE UNITED STATES ANTHEM IS BEING RECOGNIZED, WHO KNOWS MAYBE PEOPLE FROM ASIA AND AFRICA WILL LATER TRANSLATE IT IN THEIR LANGUAGE. IT DEPENDS ON WAT THE SINGERS SAID ABOUT WAT THEY DID. I DIDNT FINISH READING ALL THE COMMENTS BUT I DID SOME…
TO NUMBER (((3)))—–> WHO YOU CALLIN STUPID? DONT U KNOW THAT IMMIGRANTS DONT MEAN JUST MEXICAN PEOPLE?!!?!? ITS PEOPLE WHO COME IN THIS COUNTRY ILLEGALLY, PEOPLE FROM…CENTRAL AMERICA, SOUTH AMERICA, AFRICA, ASIA, EUROPE. STOP CALLIN OTHER PEOPLE STUDID, JUST CUZ U WANNA HATE ON MEXICANS, CUZ I DONT KNOW, MAYBE U DONT LIKE US OR WATEVER, BUT DONT BLAME EVERYTHIN ON US. ANOTHER THING, THEY DONT REFUSE TO LEARN ENGLISH. DONT U KNOW THAT MOST PEOPLE HERE SPEAK ENGLISH, THEY WANNA LEARN, THEY WANNA UNDERSTAND, BUT THEY DONT HAVE THE TIME TO BE SITTIN ON THE COUCH ON THEIR LAZY ASS AND LEARN WHILE THEY HAVE TO BE WORKIN, THEY DONT HAVE TIME, ALTHOUGH THEY SHOULD MAKE IT AND YES THEY NEED TO LEARN ENGLISH, BUT THEY DONT >>. IF THEY REFUSE LIKE U SAY, WAT ARE THEY DOIN HERE??? OK BUT LETS DO THIS, YOU GO OUT ON THE STREET AND ASK HISPANICS, DO U WANT TO LEARN ENGLISH? LETS SEE WAT THEY TELL U, IS NOT LIKE THEY GON SAY HELL NO!!. COME ON, THINK. UNITED STATES CITIZENS THAT TAKE IT ALL TO THE HEART, THEY SAY THAT THEY HAVE EDUCATION AND THAT OTHER PEOPLE SHOULD BE SMART LIKE THEM, SOME ARE BRILLIANT BUT SOME ARE NOT AND THEY STILL THINK THEY ARE. HONEY, ONE OF THEM IS >>. FIRST OF ALL AMERICA IS MADE UP OF CANADA, UNITED STATES, MEXICO, CENTRAL AMERICA, SOUTH AMERICA. WE ARE ALL AMERICANS. AMERICANS AMERICANS AMERICANS. THERE IS A BIG BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UNITED STATES CITIZENS, AND AMERICANS. WE DONT TAKE UR MONEY OUT OF UR POCKETS OR WE DONT TAKE THE FOOD OUT OF YOUR MOUTHS.
TO NUMBER 12>>> WE ARE NOT GOING TO AND WE ARE NOT TRYIN TO REPLACE THE UNITED STATES FLAG WITH OUR MEXICAN FLAG.
TO NUMBER 24>>>>>> UNDERSTAND THAT NOT ALL HISPANICS SAT DOWN AND TOOK THEIR TIME TO WRITE THE ANTHEM IN SPANISH. IT WAS A PRODUCER WHO DID IT AND GATHERED FAMOUS ALREADY SINGERS TO RECORD IT. DONT BLAME EVERYONE FOR IT CUZ ITS NOT LIKE THAT. ALOT OF HISPANIC PEOPLE THAT HEARD ABOUT THE ANTHEM, SAY THAT IT WAS A DISRESPECT, BECAUSE IT WAS, IF THEY DECIDED TO PORTRAY IT AS, >> IF THAT WAS THE MESSAGE THEY SENT OUT, WELL THAT MIGHT BE JUST THEM CUZ THAT WAS WRONG.
TO NUMBER 28>>> OK… UR IN THE MILITARY… THERE ARE ALOT OF HISPANIC PEOPLE WHO WERE ONCE ILLEGAL, AND STILL AT WAR, WHY CUZ THEY IN THIS COUNTRY. THEY ARE ONE OF THE PEOPLE THAT ARE SENT OFF FIRST TO BATTLE. DONT HATE. AND STOP TALKING LIKE WE STOLE FROM U CUZ WE DIDNT STEAL NOTTIN. AND IF U WANT SO BAD, GO TO THE BORDER AND DO WAT U SAID THAT SHOULD HAVE BEN DONE. GO ON GO, STOP READING THIS AND JUST GO SHOOT PEOPLE…
NUMBER 25>>> U NEED TO SHUT UP CUZ WE AINT STEALIN. IF U SAY THAT WE STEALIN WHY DA HELL DONT U GO AND “APPLY…” FOR A JOB AT THOSE LOOOOONG FEELS WHERE IMMIGRANTS… ARE ALWAYZ PICKIN OUT THE VEGETABLES SO THAT YOUUUUUUUUU HAVE SOMETHIN TO GO TO THE STORE AND BUY AND SIT ON UR ASS AND EAT!!!?!?! GO ON TAKE THE FREAKIN JOB, THEY TAKE THOSE JOBS U DONT WANT, AND THEY DONT CARE HOW MUCH MONEY THEY MAKE AS LONG AS THEY GET MONEY. GO ONNN… TAKE THE JOB, DONT FOOL UR SELF U’D RATHER DIE THAN WORK IN SOMETHIN LIKE THAT. U’D RATHER SIT IN AN OFFICE AND WORK. DONT COMPLAIN OK CUZ IF WE HISPANICS LEAVE, THEN YOU HAVE TO TAKE THEM JOBS SO JUST KEEP UR MOUTH SHUT. HOW BOUT IF YOUR PARENTS CAME IN ILLGALLY, AND U WAS THEM PROTESTORS, WAT THEN HUH, U STILL BE THINKIN THAT WAY? NA, CUZ U RATHER BE IGNORANT AND NOT HAVE FEELINGS AND SAY “BUT THEY DIDNT AND IM LEGAL SO WAT?”
ONCE A CHEATER ALWAYZ A CHEATER? HAHA BOY U IN DA WRONG TOPIC, DIS AINT DA SHOW CHEATERS!!, ANYWYZ HOW ARE HISPANICS CHEATING, THEY START FROM SCRATCH WORKIN IN CONSTRUCTION, WORKIN IN BACK BREAKIN WORK, THEY DONT CHEAT, THEY WORK FOR IT. YOU THAT U SLEPT IN FIELDS AND WAT EVA U SAID, TELL ME IF U SAW ONE OF CHILDREN ALMOST DYING OF HUNGER, NA NA NA, LETS SAY THAT UR THIS MAN WHO HAS A FAMILY WIT A LIL KID AND U LIVE A GOOD LIFE AND EVERYTHIN BUT THERE WAS THAT TIME IN EVERYONOES LIFE WHEN U WAS BROKE AND COULD NOT EVEN AFFORD TO BUY A LIL 5CENT PIECE OF GUM. TELL ME IF ONE DAY U WOULD HAVE NO MONEY TO SPEND BECAUSE YOU HAVE ALOT OF DEBT AND THAT U KNOW THAT U CANT WASTE NOT EVEN A PENNY. LETS SAY THAT UR LIL GIRL SAYS “DADDY I WANT THAT” AND U SAY “NO BABY NOT NOW” U SEE HER EYES WATER UP AND START CRYING. YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO GIVE WAT SHE WANTS SO BAD, BUT U CANT. WOULDNT U FEEL BAD, EVEN IF IT WAS JUST ONE DAY? WOULDNT U WANT TO DO ANYTHIN TO MAKE UR LIL GIRL HAPPY AND NOT SEE HER PRECIOUS TEARS RUN DOWN HER FACE? WELL THATS WAT HAPPENS TO PEOPLE IN OTHER COUNTRIES AND THAT IS NOT JUST FOR ONE DAY, THATS FOR A LIFE TIME. SO SOME DECIDE TO TRY AND GIVE THEIR FAMILY THE BEST. IN MEXICO UNITED STATES IS KNOWN AS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITY, THIS PLACE WHERE EVERYONE WHO COMES HERE GETS MAD RICH IN A SNAP OF A FINGERM THAT IS NOT TRU. BUT THAT IS WAS THEY THINK, THEY STILL COME HERE AND WORK EVEN IF THEY KNOW THAT THAT MEANS LEAVIN THEIR FAMILY BEHIND. THEY WANT THEM TO HAVE A GOOD LIFE.
WELL I GOTTA GO, WE DONT WANT TO REPLACE UNITED STATES WITH SOMETHIN THAT IS NOT… UNITED STATES, UNDERSTAND PLEASE…
I KNOW I MADE ALOT OF GRAMMAR MISTAKES ON THAT COMMENT THAT I JUST LEFT, AND THATS WHY I TOLD U TO NOT SAY ANYTHING ABOUT IT, I KNOW I MADE MISTAKES OK.
As a natural born citizen of the United States of America, I am disturbed. I do believe that Frances Scott Key spoke ENGLISH, wrote the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ in ENGLISH, while watching the American Revelution take place, and mine and every other LEGAL AMERICAN CITIZENS anthem was turned into a song in ENGLISH! I have heard it sung in English and I don’t want to hear it any other way. My father is in the Military and he fights and continues to fight everyday for this beatuiful country I call home. I would never go into someone elses country and expect them to change their national anthem into any other language then what it was originally written as. If your illegal and truely love this country and wish to have the freedoms we hold dear, you’ll become LEGAL, and learn the language that we speak. WHICH IS ENGLISH!
from comment #10 — “Afterall our national anthem comes from a old British drinking song.” this is incorrect.
Through a Google search
‘In the early 1800’s musical instruments and performances were not common in America. Music was generally imported from Europe, and popular tunes were frequently re-used as foundations for other lyrics
Francis Scott Key used this English drinking song to set the meter of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
This is America! The immigrants who come to America should learn English. My husband’s grandparents were immigrants from Germany and they learned English. They did not expect their children to go to school and be taught in German nor did they expect directions for voting, users manuals for products purchased be published in German.
Theodore Roosevelt in 1907 said—
“In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person’s becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American…There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn’t an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag… We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language… and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.”
I think that says it all.
I think that the Spanish version of the anthem is better than the original. The star spangled banner is a song that celebrates a proud military tradition, which we had when the song became our national anthem back in 1931 (revolutionary war, WWI, etc.). But we don’t really have a proud military tradition anymore. Think about our loss in Vietnam, failure to catch Bin Laden and the current fraudulent, poorly planned Iraqi quagmire. Instead of having a song about our lost military prowess, we should focus on unity and diversity. The Spanish language version does that. We should absorb lyrics from other languages and cultures to improve the anthem, or at least make it more relevant.
Hi, I just wanted to say two things. The first one goes out to Greg L. I hope you realize that Spanish is not Mexican. I speak Spanish and NOT Mexican? What language do Mexicans speak? The second thing that I wanted to say was that I don’t believe translating the National Anthem was a smart thing to do. I am Latin myself and I totally disagree with the Spanish (not Mexican) version of it. That’s like going to over to China and making their anthem in Spanish….It’s just ridiculous. I find it lame to say that the reason it was translated was in order to have Spanish speakers learn English…HELLO PICK UP A BOOK like a Spanish-English Dictionary or something. I apologize if I have insulted anyone…..
This country will never be a place for people who broke the low and sneaked through the borders. This will never happen… The national anthem will ALWAYS be in English
To #114…..Jim, By the way jim, did you serve in Vietnam?…How many months have you trekked looking for Bin L….Have you ever looked into the eyes of a dying soldier and said….this was all for nothing…whichever the venue?
The fact of the matter is if someone wants (In MY Opinion) to sing the song in spanish on their own time….who cares? But change the lyrics to our Anthem that we believe in, enough to die for, by non citizens?? And then promote it as approved by all?
It’s criminal. Illegal means Criminal.
Since the onset of this country, this country has absorbed cultures from all over the world. You talk about “Diversity” Where have you been”???
Come on man….you know better….And if you don’t. Just ask anyone who is serving…if they are proud of our current military tradition. I dare you for your own edification.
Yes, identity is part of language; but is it unamerican to speak more than one language? Anyone who has “PICKED UP A BOOK” knows how difficult AND rewarding it is to learn another language. Maybe more old-blooded US citizens should try it.
*Just a note, anyone who lives in any part of North or South America is “American.”
Gee Kristin, out of all the comments I’ve read, yours seems to be the most “Cold Blooded” comment of all..
P.S. Just a reminder..this blog is about our national anthem….what is your point???
It’s all nothing but XENOPHOBIA!!! Oh goodness, are those good for nothing Mexicans invading our white supremacist culture with a spanish nat’l anthem? boo hoo….get over it latinos and immigrants ARE an integral and essential part of society…like it or not..they are here to stay!!!
I, as an Argentine who many years ago was a legal immigrant in the US and that has a great love for that country do not agree with the spanish version of the National Anthem. I feel that Legal or not the National symbols must be respected as they are. The United States must stand for everything it was created for. And through the years we can all agree that it has not been that way. Xenophobia, racism and a state of supremacy is irrational for what the US is supposed to stand for. When the unfortunate events of 9-11 ocurred, the people of the US woke up to a bitter understanding of their existence. They asked a question. Why is the US hated around thge world? People just take a look and youll understand. While many individual citizens help, your government destroys. Consider people who live in South and Central America as well as mexicans, also Americans. That name is not exclusive although you have appropiated it for you. Understand the words said by JFK, Our most common link is that we are all mortals. The USSR built a wall to keep West Germnans in. The US will build a wall to keep Mexicans out. Nazis were Xenophobic. See any pattern?
For Sharon Number 114. Please read the Immigration Restriction Act of 1924 during Calvin Coolidge Presidency. Then youll understand.
PS Sharon. Coolidge also said America must be kept American. Now isnt that Xenophobia?
I have not read all the comments; however, let’s have respect for each other. As a proud American citizen, I do not like the American Anthem in any other language but English. I respect different cultures but I will not attempt to translate any National Anthem to accommodate my language. We welcome everyone to this country but follow the law. You can not impose what you want, you must respect our constitution and the way we have built our country. God bless America!
The so-called “Spanish language version” of the Star Spangled Banner is a fraud. Its words have a meaning far different from Francis Scott Key’s. It is an entirely different ballad, more like some “socialist workers” hymn, that shares only the music of our national anthem.
All Americans, including those of us who speak Spanish, should consider it an affront and an insult.
A remix to be released in June will contain several lines in English that condemn U.S. immigration laws. Among them: “These kids have no parents, cause all of these mean laws … let’s not start a war with all these hard workers, they can’t help where they were born.” http://apnews.myway.com/article/20060428/D8H90A2GQ.html
This is no “statement of national unity.” It’s a socialist workers’ hymn.
Consider the choice of date (May 1, celebrated as a special day in the Soviet Union , Cuba, and other Communist nations) and the sponsorship of Venezuelan socialist dictator Hugo Chavez. http://www.americanthinker.com/articles.php?article_id=5459
Now tell me this is solely about the personal interests of the illegal immigrants.
What we have here is an orchestrated campaign, led by those who hate America and capitalism, to weaken America and destroy it from within. This isn’t immigration, it’s an invasion of millions that is being actively supported and aided by foreign nations Mexico and Venezuela. It’s almost an act of war.
Wake up America! Do you care enough about this nation to defend it? Or will you sit by silently until it’s too late?
Robert,
You do realize you’re visiting a Spanish Language site every day, don’t you? Do you really think your world is not changing?
Comment to Dez. May 1st is not a socialist or communist holiday. Its a worldwide one that celebrates Labor Day. The only country in the world that celebrates Labor Day on a different Date is the US. Respectfully I disagree with your point of view. I think that you must wake up. The only country that is weakening the United >States is the United States. Please try not to be so naive. The immigrants in the US are working people that intend to better their lives with the American Dream. A dream that sistematically was taken away from their own countries by imperialistic states such as the UK, during many years in the past century. War is not the answer to all my fellow continental american. If the United States were to wake up they would see a world that does not accept many things. They would simply open their eyes.
Luke #5,
So you feel guilty because over 100 years ago our ancestors “took (this land) by force.” So what do you propose as your remedy?
The original 13 colonies were “taken by force” in the American Revolution. Shall we give them back to England?
The 11 states of the Confederacy (which include area beyond the original 13 colonies) were retained “by force” in the Civil War. Should the portion we don’t return to England be given independence?
Texas declared itself a sovereign nation in 1836 before petitioning to be annexed by the US in 1845. Do we give it independence, or return it to Mexico, from which it gained its independence.
Portions of the Oregon Territory were also claimed by England. Do we give that back to England.
The Louisiana Territory (1804), southern Arizona and New Mexico (1853), and Alaska (1867) were purchased from France, Mexico, and Russia, respectively. Are we allowed to retain those, or do you believe they were purchased with ill-gotten money and must also be returned?
If you can’t bear living here, then get the hell out.
You know dez, Luke may not be right on his exposition, but his opinion should be heard, not necessarily accepted and respected. Your verbal violence toward him only shows that you like many citizens are blinded by anger and that is a destructive position. Destructive only for the US. Come on man. Wake up and see the real world and not the idealistic world that you pretend and suppose.
To Proud American Servicewoman. Youre right on the dot. I applaud what you say and most of allthe part about the right to speak.
Pete,
I’m tired of hearing people like Luke advocate policies that are suicidal for this nation because they have been imbued with guilt over something that happened long before any of us was born.
People like him go on and on about how evil this nation is. Well there isn’t a darn thing I can do about what happpened in the 1800’s. I can influence what happens in the here and now, and I’m not going to see myself and my children sacrificed by people like Luke because they aren’t happy with what happened long ago.
If Luke can’t bear the guilt of living here and has found an idyllic paradise where all is perfect, he is welcome to go there. While in this nation, he is welcome to speak his mind, and I am welcome to speak mine.
I’ll tell any servicemember who will listen that serving in the U.S. military is reason to be proud, but Iraq and Vietnam are both huge mistakes. And, yes, people in Iraq (U.S. soldiers and Iraqi civilians) are dying because of a huge mistake. It’s actually a lot worse than “all for nothing.” Have you looked into the eyes of dying Iraqi civilians or people who were raped and butchered Mai Lai? Maybe your heart just bleeds for Americans. We are causing the deaths of a lot more innocent civilians in Iraq than Bin Laden did on 9/11. The families of the victims of 9/11 got millions of dollars from. I think we should give an equivalent amount to the families of the Iraqi victims.
I came here as an immigrant, did not have to learn a different language. Had to go through the “legal” channel, and pay money. When I lived in England and we went to other countries to visit, we had to take along a book to be able to translate. Very few people spoke English. When you watch the Olympics, do other countries sing their national anthem in English also?
Yes this country was taken from the American Indians by the British, it was rotten, it happened, nothing can be done about that anymore. Let it go. This is now and it is America and has been for a long time. We make a lot of concessions for foreigners especially the Spanish. Why are they trying to change our traditions? Nobody does it for us. We do not stop them from celebrating Cinco de Mayo. We are spit at, bombed, kicked, all because we want a better life. Other countries are just jealous or religious zelots.
The big business’s are the ones who are hiring the illegals. Why? Because they say Americans will not work for that low a pay. Okay so instead they scrunge off the government (our taxes), get welfare, food stamps, what is wrong with working? Do you really believe you can get something for nothing?
I believe in this country, became a citizen because of that. I had to go through the proper channels, so should others.
When do you decide to sing the National Anthem in English and then Spanish, everytime it is sung? I think not, no one else does that. They can learn it in English. That is the spoken language here, is it not?
By the way #49, can you not even spell out your (UR) words properly? A little lazy and angry are (R) we? Get a life and a dictionary. People who write like that just show how ignorant they are.
We are American’s and proud of that fact. Let’s stand up and let it be heard. Write the President, Congress, have your friends do the same, it is time we took a stand. I do not mind if the mexicans want to come over here, just do it legally. There has got to be an answer.
Well it’s a very controversial thing going on right now. Some people take it like an insult and others take it like a compliment.
Humm… let see…. like everything has two sides of the coin. The way i see it is its just a translation!!! it could teach people to respect it more by knowing the meaning of it and be able to later learn it in English.
Now ANYONE though of what happened with the burning of the FLAGS didn’t they said it was freedom of speech … that is was just a cloth??? Just like this case some people would take it personally and disrespectfully and others would said the opposite.
What im trying to say here is it’s not FLAG or the Anthem or anything is but OURSELVES …. What sentimental value we give to things. Different opinions…. different minds… whit out this it would be so boring. What a woderful world.
There are only two reasons why someone would oppose the National Anthem being sung in Spanish. Ignorance or racism. Your ancestors did not land on the lovely shores of the United States and learn English immediately. European immigrants spoke German especially but also Russian, Italian, Norwegian, Yiddish, Polish, (enter your ancestors’ languages here) for generations after they arrived here. They spoke their native languages in bilingual schools, in churches, in their workplaces, they had their own newspapers and presses. And they may have even (Oh my God) sung the National Anthem in those languages.
And racists and xenophobes like the Know-Nothings and the Ku Klux Klan whined and complained and lobbied Congress for stricter immigration legislation and got it.
The United States is not going to become Spanish speaking. Latino immigrants learn English at the same rate immigrants always did, and English remains indispensible if one wants to become even high-school educated or get a decent job.
So call me crazy, but if a Latino immigrant wants to express their patriotism by singing Nuestro Himno in Spanish, I can’t see a thing wrong with that.
i’m 12 and i know my opinion wont matter much to anyone anywaays, by=ut oh well.
I think we should get it in all languages.
I mean, we’ve got so many different ethnic groups here, it only seems fair. Who cares?
It’s an anthem. Let the Hispanic people do what they want. They are getting to be more and more and we just might as well be Mexican now. Then again I don’t think any country would like for their National Anthem to be turned into a “we are the world” type of musicalization, and not even translated accurately.
But, it is an American Anthem. And in American, we speak English. If I wanted to go to Mexico, I would learn Spanish. Why should I conform to them? Sure they wouldn’t. But America is welcoming every race. It is supposedly a free country. so why can’t the immigrants change it for their use only? It’s not like we all have to sing it in that language.Again. The United States is supposed to be a place to look forward to freedom. There is no law about English. It just helps. so there is no point in getting mad at the hispanic people. Maybe it is pay back for taking most of their land just for the Manifest Destiny. Again. The United States is supposed to be a place to look forward to freedom. There is no law about English. It just helps. so there is no point in getting mad at the hispanic people. Maybe it is pay back for taking most of their land just for the Manifest Destiny. The hispanic and mexican culture will effect things. Not much to do now but adapt.
If it were that easy to cross the border legally I think a lot of more people would do it that way. But no. Maybe you cant even imagine how they suffer to cross to your country and just to work there, for their families. Thinking that maybe they wont survive the dessert or the river or every other danger. If it were more easy legally nobody would be taking those risks… you havent seen all the crosses in Tijuana border? A lot of them it just says “not identified”… it just makes me sad. But maybe that law its necessary to the US, maybe the country doesnt need workers right now, thats why theyre making this. When they need more again theyre gonna “open” the borders again… it seems like thats how it works.
And translating your anthem.. lol I dont see it like a bad thing beceuse they didnt do it to make you angry, they did it to say thanks to your country, as a compliment, maybe theyre sorry you people took it as a bad gesture. They dont intent to change your official language, its just a compliment. And knowing that the least you can do is says thanks even if you really didnt like it. And your law doesnt say something about it, in Mexico if someone does that he just go to jail… :S
Writing arguments that point out how the United States was founded will not change the fact how today its citizens feel about what they consider their own and will want to protect it (their country).
Pointing out that 60% of the people don’t know the lyrics of the National Anthem or if it came from a British bar song does not change the fact that it is considered a national symbol and deserves respect.
The illegal immigration issue is a dependency problem so on the other hand blaming Mexicans and fantasising that you can implement laws that can force them to leave will not solve this problem. This would be like blaming hookers in a prostitution issue and saying if you could get rid of them then there would be no problem. What about all the male clientele left behind with their needs and their money? … don’t be naive in thinking that they are just going to put it back into their pockets.
Mexican labor is needed in this country because economically there is a place for them, they are cheaper than hiring Americans, is that simple. Mexicans will always try to come here because they make more money, it is that simple too. We got a demand and a supply, don’t fight it, you would be literally trying to restructure world commerce.
Now hold on tight, here comes the mind blower: The reason there are illegal immigrants is not because Mexicans choose to brake the law coming the wrong way and therefore becoming illegal, it is because the only way possible for them to come here is ILLEGALLY and the United States has made sure of this. United Stated gets more benefits by forcing the creation of this second class to exist the way it does than to give them any legal status. It forces them to come with a status that will guarantee them the worst jobs at the worst pay possible with less benefits.
12 million illegal immigrants is not a problem that hurts America, it is a well done plan that will guarantee it citizens a higher standard of living. What people think is the “problem” is really the illusion generated by this government used o prolong the existence of this second lower class.
There is no way that 12 million people which represent the lower uneducated class of Mexico, where able to infiltrate a 1st world country and exploit their laws and their system not knowing the language. If those Mexicans where that f***ing smart they would not be picking fruit and cleaning your toilets.
Wake up people this is a modern type of slavery just 21st century style done though politics for the same purpose of the old one… cheap labor and exploitation of the week and uneducated.
I am from Mexico and have been living in the US for 6 years. Unlike most Mexicans I came on a plane with a student visa. The only reason I was allowed to do that is because my parents showed a bank account that proves I could pay for at least a whole year of rent and expenses plus all my higher tuition fees designed specially for international students.
United States only accepts people Legally if they can bring more economical profits than it own citizens… it makes sense.
Regarding the Spanish version of the anthem, it is either a producer trying to make some money on behalf of the immigration movement. 2)Someone in the immigration movement who has no … clue and should be shot for being so retarded.
why do you care if English is not the official lenguage of the USA.
So The U.S. national anthem can be translated into any other lenguage.
Freedom this is the country of freedom
Viva Mexico-USA
Hi folks. This is an interesting subject. The tune to an old English barroom drinking song with adapted lyrics became the U.S. national anthem, now disrespected by adapting it with Spanish lyrics? Isn’t it time that we join the rest of our own hemisphere in acknowledging its predominant language? Most cultured and educated persons enjoy their facility with two or more languages. Spanish, the direct decendant of Latin, is a noble, proud and expressive language. I for one, am very happy that our Spanish speaking residents and neigbors will be able to sing our national anthem in the language of their birth.
Eliza #136 said:
“So call me crazy, but if a Latino immigrant wants to express their patriotism by singing Nuestro Himno in Spanish, I can’t see a thing wrong with that.”
Eliza,
Have you read the words to “nuestro Himno” in either language? It does not express patriotism toward the USA.
The first hint of that is that is called “Our Hymn” and not “The Star Spangled Banner.” I don’t know who the “we” is meant to be, but it is not the successors of the Americans that kept our freedom by defeating Britain in the War of 1812.
This, I repeat, is NOT a Spanish-language of version of The Star Spangled Banner. It is a different ballad that is being sung using the same tune. Kind of like what Americans did when they set “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” to the tune of the British anthem “God Save the Queen.”
You don’t change a country’s national anthem. That should be obvious. No other country would tolerate it; neither should we.
By the way, what would happen if “illegal Guatemaltecos were to demonstrate in Mexico??
JOhn Robert McAuley
My son-in-law is Hispanic, so my feelings about this issue are very mixed. However, my feelings on the Star Spangled Banner are very clear; it is inappropriate to translate it into another language except for purposes of teaching about the difference in language. I would never consider singing the Mexican or Spanish national anthems in English, that would be incredibly rude.
Here is “Nuestro Himno” and an english translation for those that are interested. I have no issue with verse 1, seems fine. Verse 2 is problematic to me – it isn’t a translation of the original at all. (original is at the end).
(This is for educational discussion and I am quoting for comparison so I am not worrying about copyright stuff.)
Lyrics to ‘Nuestro Himno’ (’Our Anthem’) – English below
Verso 1
Amanece, lo veis?, a la luz de la aurora?
lo que tanto aclamamos la noche al caer?
sus estrellas sus franjas
flotaban ayer
en el fiero combate
en señal de victoria,
fulgor de lucha, al paso de la libertad.
Por la noche decían:
“Se va defendiendo!”
Coro
Oh decid! Despliega aún
Su hermosura estrellada
sobre tierra de libres,
la bandera sagrada?
Verso 2
Sus estrellas, sus franjas,
la libertad, somos iguales.
Somos hermanos. Es nuestro himno.
En el fiero combate en señal de victoria,
Fulgor de lucha
(Mi gente sigue luchando)
al paso de la libertad
(Ya es tiempo de romper las cadenas.)
Por la noche decían: “!Se va defendiendo!”
Oh decid! Despliega aún su hermosura estrellada
sobre tierra de libres,
la bandera sagrada?
English translation:
Verse 1
It’s sunrise. Do you see by the light of the dawn
What we proudly hailed last nightfall?
Its stars, its stripes
yesterday streamed
above fierce combat
a symbol of victory
the glory of battle, the march toward liberty.
Throughout the night, they proclaimed: “We will defend it!”
Chorus
Tell me! Does its starry beauty still wave
above the land of the free,
the sacred flag?
Verse 2
Its stars, its stripes,
Liberty, we are the same.
We are brothers in our anthem.
In fierce combat, a symbol of victory
the glory of battle,
(My people fight on)
the march toward liberty.
(The time has come to break the chains.)
Throughout the night they proclaimed: “We will defend it!”
Tell me! Does its starry beauty still wave
above the land of the free,
the sacred flag?
Original Lyrics
O say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro’ the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watch’d, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof thro’ the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
On the shore dimly seen thro’ the mists of the deep,
Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes,
What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep,
As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,
In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream:
‘Tis the star-spangled banner: O, long may it wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
And where is that band who so vauntingly swore
That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion,
A home and a country should leave us no more?
Their blood has wash’d out their foul footsteps’ pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave:
And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
O thus be it ever when free-men shall stand
Between their lov’d home and the war’s desolation;
Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the heav’n-rescued land
Praise the Pow’r that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust!”
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Para el americano confuso mudo: Usted no puede cantar el himno nacional de España en ninguna lengua. No tiene ninguna palabra.
i think that this isnt fair what yall are saying i mean there is no problem with singing it in spanish. The only problem with yall citizens is that since is puerto ricans singing its a problem but if it was a white man then i dont think yall would be creating so much problems. And most of this post’s that i see doesnt have to do with the song its that every single one is being racist of one another i mean there is no problem 75% of america is hispanic we suffer to do the work . you know what if you send all immigrants back to mexico well hell be it might as well send every one but i got one thing to say you will never find people like us!! i love america but viva mexico
if the last author likes mexico so much,go home.do not disgrace the national anthem by changing/singing it in ANY other language.period.
Dear Grace #127
Grace thanks for the update!!! I had no idea that the world is changing.
It is quite evident, Illegal Immigrants who are criminals, Have The Nerve to ask to be Rewarded For Breaking The Law.
If I sneak into your house and steal your money….you won’t mind will you. And then I’ll assume your identity and then change your name….you won’t mind will you?
Illegal means criminal. For now it is in fact a misdemeanor. Soon to be a felony.
I break the law, I get punished in one way or the other.
If I visit your house, I will respect it and not Assume It’s Okay to do whatever it is I want.
I think it is time for America to “Clean House”.
Re-writing Americas National Anthem is just not on the table. And deep down inside you know it.
In regards to your first question….the answer is si~
Face it grace you know Im right and you are not.
Here is a quote of someone that said exactly what I mention on my comment #139 but in a more elegant way. I am posting it because maybe his use of words are more approachable and will help better to understand the problem.
”Our policy is to have a half-open door and a half-open wallet,” Leonel J. Castillo, the commissioner of the old US Immigration and Naturalization Service, told the Globe in 1979. ”. . .we let them kind of squeeze their way in through the door, and then we hire them with our half-open wallet; we pay them less than we pay other people. But we’re not going to give them all the benefits that you might get with a full wallet.”
Janet #121
Newsflash….They are not “ALL” here to stay. I am happy for all who go through the process legally and are accepted. They can be proud.
The fact of the matter is Illegal Immigrants are BAD for our country.
You know the details, you know I am right and you are not.
I have never in my life ever heard any reports of A New Citizen Running out to change the national anthem.
You Face the fact: Americas National Antem Will Not Be Changed.
Oh yeah, just out of curiousity, Please answer, I honestly can’t wait for your reply.
Would you die for the mexican national flag?
I would really like to know, if anyone has any info; re: Copyright Infringement.
I would like to know what the legal ramifications are re: this whiny mexican anthem.
I am African-American. Just about any and every aspect of my life and those of my ancestors has been “illegal.” It was illegal for people like me to learn to read during slavery. It was “illegal” for me to ride in the front of the bus. It was “illegal” for me to try to eat in many restaurants of my choice. It was “illegal,” in many states, for me to marry my husband, a Caucasian. Incidentally, the law against “miscegenation” is still on the books in the state of South Carolina. Most US inhabitants think of that as an interesting relic of a deservedly bygone age. When we blacks protested for our rights, people complained that we were “demanding,” and that our cause would be hurt by our militancy. Everything we did was considered “illegal” because of outdated and unjust laws. The same situation applies to women’s place in society. Although we cannot have been called “illegal,” any demands for social, political, and economic equality were considered shrill, militant, and “unfeminine.” Do we really want to repeat these past injustices? When these situations are viewed through the lens of a dispassionate history, then you may agree that our laws and customs at particular times have been nonsensical. I doubt that many would consider these laws fair today. I see a parallel. US inhabitants only like for darker-skinned people to enter its borders when they are here to work–either as slaves or to be exploied for low wages. To all of those people who believe that “illegal immigrants” reduce US wages, please think about this: immigrants currently depress wages because they have to work for less pay–they live under the threat of deportation and can be kept in near-slavery because of their “illegal” status. They have no forum in which to complain. When those people can come out of the shadows and demand the real wages they deserve, then all wages will RISE. If no one can get a nanny for $150 a week any more, then they’ll have to pay a real wage–every nanny benefits. We all benefit from real fairness. Let’s try it on and see what it feels like.
Also, who is “American?” Canadians are Americans; inhabitants of South American are Americans. (Maybe that’s why we call it South America.) US inhabitants need to understand that America extends beyond its national borders. US inhabitants willingly learn other languages all the time–they learn them in order to sell our products to other countries. Let’s examine our attitudes about who is welcome or not welcome, then examine why we think the way we do.
I must say that I was surprised by the comments full of anger (and the shocking amount of grammar errors
, you say learn our language, maybe instead of screaming about the Spanish language in the States or the illegals, we should be screaming about the education system 
. Perhaps that is the point of translating the national anthem…to display publicly how angry and ridiculous Americans can be about THEIR country. I doubt that immigrants from Spanish-speaking countries are dying to know what the anthem means. I think it is more likely that those who are here legally are tired of being looked upon as if they don´t belong or that they are some kind of burden and they are making it public. I am currently living in Spain (where, btw, the national anthem has no lyrics, it conveys the message through the “universal language” of music 
, which I find interesting because the meaning of “MY COUNTRY” changes from generation to generation). The news coverage of the reactions really makes us look sad. Of course the news always covers the extreme cases of anger (think of the coverage of the Middle East), but people outside of the States are having a hard time understanding how there is such public outcry to something like a song and such little outcry to the real injustices of our country.
One other thing I would like to comment on…do any of these people who demand “LEARN OUR LANGUAGE!”, have any experience at all with learning a language. It takes years! I don´t doubt that after years of living in the States a legal immigrant who is foreign-born will learn English, but in the meantime it may be helpful to be able to communicate. That alone creates jobs (jobs in translation, advertizing, social services, education). I remember when I was in high school, we had 3 new students from Mexico (legally). They spoke very little English. They sat in history, math, English literature, not understanding a thing. What kind of education did they receive? What is their financial situation now? How are they contributing to society now?
We have a lot of space here. Spanish speakers in America take jobs, but they also spend money and therefore create jobs. Sometimes we need to take a breath, lose a little pride, gain a little understanding and ask ourselves what is REALLY going to benefit OUR COUNTRY, our society, our future generations.
Remember the Alamo…
To Illegal Immigrants:
1. If you left Mexico because it’s … than America… Don’t wave the Mexican flag while marching on American streets.
2. If you left Mexico because it’s … than America… Don’t celebrate Mexico’s independence day in America.
3. Si tu no habla ingles, aprende esta:
Learn the … language or go back home!
I don’t see a problem with the spanish version of our national anthem. I love the language and the Mecican people. I want everyone in this country to learn to speak sppanish and required in our schools from K throught 12. I also feel that our countries laws must be respected.
I think when they changed the lyrics to this anthem, it ceased being the nation anthem of this great country. I heard on the news that it was made to show solidarity with illegal aliens. I mean it tells nothing about how are “flag was still there or bombs bursting in air”. They can’t relate to that. How can they be singing about the *U.S.* national anthem and waving a Mexican flag?!
This spanish version, like everything else is all about *them*! Illegal aliens demanding their right. If you are illegal…you don’t have a right,
They try to liken the civil rights movement with this efforts that Dr. King started for a population of Black ‘AMERICAN’ rights. Dr. King would not support something that was illegal. And the black community are angry about that. Jesse Jackson has lost touch with his people and most black people are very angry about that. He has lost touch with his people!!!
I digress…This national anthem by the latino community is about them and not America. As far as I’m concerned…they can have it!
A small detail has been missed about the
national anthem in Spanish. It is
unintelligible. I’m a native speaker of
Spanish and every time I’ve heard it on
TV I don’t understand a single word in
it. So a controversy has been created
about something that is a bad example
of what good Spanish should be. Sad!
Dustee Is Absolutely Right….You must be a citizen to have rights. This isn’t Disneyland…Just cause you get in, Not Everything Is For Free…..
Good One Dustee # 157
bev #153….You sound like you know what you are talking about, However like janet #121 proclaims,”The World Is Changing, and it is. Sweetheart, that was a different era;
Can you name any of Your Ancestors that Re-Wrote The National Anthem during Modern Day Times??
Now in the paper The Great State of Phoenix has deputised 3000 citizens to go out and “Round Up” all Illegal Immigrants.
If this is a direct result of Illegal Immigrants trying to “HiJack” our National Anthem……I am happy at the result.
Lets see if all illegal immigrants will be singing praises to Adam Kitron, THE POT STIRER…………..
LEAVE OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM ALONE
I just wanted to communicate something about Holland and their immigration policy. Did you know that before you can immigrate to Holland, you must speak the language? Did you know that before you can immigrate to Holland you must watch a film about their society and customs, and if you do not accept any part of their society and customs, you cannot immigrate there? I guess I just wanted to mention that because the fact many Americans prefer people to enter our country legally is not such a bad thing. Hell, I want my government to know who is entering our country. Many people wait a long time and spend a lot of money before they can become a citizen of this country. Our government could do more to help Mexico by pushing their government to treat their people better. You don’t see Canadians jumping the border.
Right now there are about 22,000 immigrants in jail through the immigration detention system. The same amount was true before 9/11 happened. Meaning same amount of arrests are being made today. My point is the following: The problem of illegal immigrants has been around for decades, there are laws that already penalize anyone that hires illegal people, there is already a system that is designed to deport anyone who shouldn’t be here. Yet as we speak only 0.18% of illegal people are being held accountable out of the 12 million that are still out there.
Again I’m trying to make the same point I did in my comments #139 and #150. When you see a government that is only dealing with 0.18% of the problem doesn’t that gives you a hint of their true intentions. Look at it this way… this government has succeeded in keeping inside this country 99.82% of illegals.
First of all the native people were here first. This land that you call America was stolen from them. In that respect, everyone who lives here is an illegal immigrant since those natives were never given any consent as to who would come over to their land. Do you know what makes these people ILLEGAL immigrants; its laws made by the people and the descendants of the people who stole this land from them. Who are they to decide who is an illegal immigrant and who isn’t.
The native people were a very diverse people with different langugaes and cultures. If there should be an anthem then who more then them deserves to have one sung in their different languages. Think about that!
I think we Americans should look to those Canadians as an example. They have a system of acceptance that we don’t have. They like people to express their different cultural heritage while we expect other people to assimilate into our culture; a culture that is a creation of money hungry corporations, corrupt politicians and drunk psychologically scarring celebrities. When do the people actually get to decide what elements compose their culture.
I can’t believe you guys are arguing over this crap when there are more dire things happening in the US.
It’s quite pitiful what’s happening to the US. The poverty level is rising. The middle class is dying out as huge distinctions between the rich and the poor are forming. This is what happens when American soldiers, money and power is being used so that Jewish people can have a land to call their own; all while the world spits at America for aiding them in this genocide. There would be no 9/11, no war in Iraq, no loss of American or any other unnecessary life, if the US government would just stay out of the political affairs of other countries.
That’s what I tell people, don’t hate the American people just hate our government.
All you people whining about the Spanish needing to learn OUR national language need to get out and do some research. The United States does NOT have an “official” national language. English is the main language, but it is not an official national language. There have been attempts to make it so, and they have not passed. Until we have an OFFICIAL national language that by law is the language of our country, there is no reason that songs relating to our country can’t be translated.
It seems to me to be another knee jerk reaction as when people were burning the flag.This all sounds like nationalist feelings the like of which led to Hitler’s Germany. As Christians, who founded our country, we are called to be brothers seperate from the world and from too great a loyality to Cesear.
Don #165
Wake up and smell the “Lyrics”.
Translate Means for your own trans edification;
To render in another language.
To put into simpler terms; explain or interpret.
To express in different words; paraphrase.
Huge difference my fried, when it comes to Translating, and Re-writing—Re-writing—Re-writing !!!
LEAVE OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM ALONE……
Comprende?
This is ridiculous. If anyone had translated the national anthem into Gaelic, German, Chinese or etc… no one would be talking. But oh no those darn Mexicans! What are they trying to do make America a nation of immigrants? God forbid!
This is typical hypocrisy.
– proud non-WASP American
even though I am hispanic I am also disagree with what those people did changing the american anthem we are all not like that and most of the hispanics are also disagree with this please dont make stereotypes about us.
My! In reading the comments I feel mostly fear and hatred (or maybe strong dislike) but mostly fear. And, I feel a great lack of Christian feeling that this country is based on. By the way our native language would be the language of our ancestors. The native language of the USA is basically indigenous; but, alas most of those languages have gone and the people have been segmented in the society and relegated to a lesser life than what they deserve. I have taught Spanish and ESL for forty years, and , I have had no reason to hate nor to belittle any of the immigrants whom I have taught. In a sense, we have invited illegals to come here. They are also the responsibility of Mexico which has ignored them. We don’t have a dialagoue with Mexico to see what we can all do about the problems that have come forward. I do not believe that translating the National Anthem into Spanish was meant to harm nor to denigrate in any way the English version. I have had students learn the Star Apangled Banner into English and then have obtained anSpanish version so that they could know what the anthem said until they could understand enough English to appreciate the meaning. I have no fear that any immigrant is going to destroy my country; I have a fear that we may do so by not living up to the responsibilities that we are entrusted with–Being humane. Educate educate.
Latinos fight for this country!!!!! I had Latinos in my outfit who were not yet citizens who faought like great soleiers and great human beings and they loved the United States. Some didn’t get to come back home to enjoy what they fought for. I did.
I don’t see what all the fuss is about. I watch a sports event, and –unlike other countries — nobody sings our national anthem anyway. It’s nearly always performed. No comment on that.
has America really reached this level of ignorance? The uproar about the spanish version of the National Anthem is an embarassment to our nation. The president, with his ruling that the national anthem should only be sung in English shows why Americans are so self centered. Next the U.S will want the whole world to speak in only English!! I want to know how many Americans have ever tried to learn another language. I know it’s a low percentage. Americans have become so conceited that they don’t want to share their national Anthem with there fellow Americans. Look beyond America, THERE’S A WHOLE OTHER WORLD OUT THERE!!!!
Reading some of these comments, I wish some of you in the anti-Spanish crowd spent a little more time learning English yourselves.
WELCOME TO THE MEXIFORMING OF AMERICA!
Those in northern states may not realize the extent to which America has already become bilingual, in the sense that many ads for jobs in Florida include “bilingual”, meaning English and Spanish, as a requirement. This includes government jobs.
Cubans are not the problem. They stopped immigrating to Florida in large numbers when the U.S. Government started sending back to Cuba most of those attempting the ocean passage. (Only those who set foot on land before the Coast Guard catches (or rescues) them are permitted to stay.)
Many Mexican immigrants come to Florida to harvest crops – Florida has many crops when most of the rest of the country has none.
Presumably, job applicants are required to speak Spanish in other states with large Hispanic populations, as well. You would expect this in the states bordering Mexico. However, in a recent episode of the “Hispanics Today” TV show, we were told that the fastest growing Hispanic population in America is in North Carolina. An interviewee remarked that “(before long) you’ll need to speak Spanish to live in Charlotte”.
Even people who already have American jobs are discriminated against because they don’t speak Spanish. The taxi driver, for example, who is not allowed to take Hispanic passengers on long (hence lucrative) trips. The teacher who is reassigned because a new law requires that Spanish-speaking grammar school students, meaning those having less than a given proficiency in English, be taught by Spanish-speaking teachers, rather than requiring that the students be taught English.
Amnesty was granted to illegal immigrants in 1986, when there were less than two million. This time around, there are well over TEN Million! According to a network news story, thousands a day are curreently crossimg the border. (Ten million over the entire twenty years would average about 1600 a day.) Because millions of Mexicans are illegally crossing our border, American citizens, residing in their own country, are being required to speak Spanish. This is wrong.
Regardless of their numbers, or status, all immigrants to America who don’t already know our language should study English if they wish to communicate with us, rather than expecting Americans to study the four thousand other languages spoken on this Earth. You read that right. There are four THOUSAND other languages. (You learn all kinds of wierd stuff watching PBS.) Think four thousand is funny? There are jurisdictions in America where some judge requires that government documents be published in over a dozen languages – so far!
Some economists are now saying that we really do need the immigrants, illegals and all – that if we stem the tide of illegal immigrants, we’ll feel it. Moreover, many of us (about 75% according to network news) want to be kind to the illegals. Me too. But neither of these mean that we have to be doormats.
U.S. ENGLISH, Inc. (www.usenglish.org) is a 1.8 million member “citizens’ action group dedicated to preserving the unifying role of the English language in the United States”. This group was founded by and is still lead by first-generation immigrants. (Anyone else would probably be accused of racism.)
And they’re succeeding! Currently 27 states have “official English” laws. But there is not yet a Federal law.
However you feel about other aspects of the immigration issue, you can address the language issue by doing three things:
1. Forward this email (or your own thoughts on this) to everyone in your “address book”.
2. Join U.S. ENGLISH, Inc. (at http://www.usenglish.org).
3. Send letters, emails, whatever to your legislators and the President supporting the goals of U.S. ENGLISH.
Many of us joining U.S. ENGLISH, Inc. could change history. Note that the National Rifle Associaton has considerable political clout with only 3 million members. U.S. ENGLISH, Inc. is well on the way toward that number. If each of us “lights one little candle” and puts it in the right place, we can have a bonfire raging under Congress!
Keep in mind that each of us is represented in Congress by one Representative and two Senators. You can find out how to contact them, and the President, at “www.congress.org” – just provide your Zip Code.
Thank you Stan. You’re right, a lot of them in Northern states do NOT understand the impact of spanish speaking people who will not learn english. I’m here in Florida and the impact is clear. I was turned down for a job I was fully qualified for because I do not speak spanish. The man hiring was sincere and apologetic to me, telling me that I would have had the job, but that most of the people moving to the area cannot speak english and he needs someone in the office that can translate for them.
I see a lot of other things down here that are influenced by the huge migration. In the last 20 years, wages have hardly increase, while rent and everything else has greatly increased. Employers do not have to offer higher wages to attract workers. Immigrants will work for lower wages, live bunched together in a single dwelling, and this combination keeps wages low and rent high.
This is an impact that does not make me happy.
It’s not about racism. I don’t care what color their skin is. I DO care that I have to learn their language to find work, or that I have to find 2 more people to live with me (or get a 3rd job) just to pay the bills.
FIRST OFF not all hispanics are Mexicans. I am hispanic myself im half Cuban half Spaniard. SECOND OFF the national anthem is not going to be sung in events in spanish its still going to be in english. Third Off not all hispanics are illegal immigrants im not. Fourth off they made the song in spanish to show their pride in being an American. Its not like they dont want to learn english they do but Seniors such as my parents were not capable of learning english are you going to send them back? its not their fault they’re old.
Also Hispanics also serve and die for our countries freedom as well. My nephew is serving for this nation and yet he doesnt even know what the national anthem means. Does that seem fair?
This idea is WONDERFUL!!! AS a linguist, from a linguistic perspective I see this language diveristy as wonderful. Congrats and I am so proud of the diversity!
JW
On behalf of many people in this country, please forgive the frustrated individuals who have lost jobs, been belittled, and have literally seen the country that their forefathers died to defend overrun by individuals who love to belittle this nation and put down the fundamentals that it is based upon.
First off, it is very easy to stereotype people, but it is important that we do our best not to lump people into categories, and there is a HUGE group of individuals in this country who are from Spanish speaking countries who have died for this country and who continue to die for the freedoms that we possess. Someone who is Hispanic is not an illegal immigrant any more than someone who has pale skin is a poor basketball player
The next comment goes passionately out to the ignorant individual who made the comment that this country was “stolen” from the natives. YES IT WAS. SO WAS EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD AS FAR AS WE KNOW. (Dark skinned) Africans sold Africans into slavery to the “white man,” Romans crucified (nailed them to crosses and broke their legs) people for punishment, Germans killed mass numbers of Jews for “cleansing” purposes, U.S. Americans kill nearly fully developed individuals who have no chance and are still in the womb for convenience sake, The Taliban murdered individuals, native American tribes slaughtered each other (certainly not all, but some did, please don’t take that as a stereotype, many Native Americans belonged to peaceful tribes) and I dare to say that PEOPLE HAVE BEEN DOING SOME MESSED UP THINGS SINCE THE BEGINING OF RECORDED HISTORY.
Right now, however, we (by “we” I mean legal citizens, as in those who came from Mexico legally, those who are descended from the English who founded this nation, those who came by boat from Spain, those descended from Africans who build this nation’s economy as slaves with no freedoms, those descended from Irish servants who were often treated worse than slaves, any of the other many countries that individuals came from, and are still coming from, to build this country as a Free Nation!) I know it was a few lines up but what I was saying is that this WE I was speaking of realizes that the National Anthem was written in English, and should be spoken in English for one to really even try to grasp the deep meaning and pride that we have. “but what if someone has a difficult time, or it seems imposable for them to learn it in English… send the foreigners home?”
NO WAY!
I love translations!!
TRANSLATING IS A GREAT WAY TO SHOW OTHERS SOMETHING THAT CANNOT SEE THROUGH YOUR EYES
Those of you AGAINST translating the Anthem… How can you relate this love for your country to those who are experiencing it later than you and come from a different background than you? TRANSLATION OF LANGUAGE…
Those of you who SCOFF individuals who are offended by the translations, remember, their grandfather and father died for the freedom you have to SPEAK YOUR OPINION, AND YOU COULD NOT DO THAT IN MOST OTHER COUNTRIES WITHOUT GETTING ARRESTED!!!
So, please, respect each other, stand up tall and recite the national anthem IN ENGLISH with pride, and turn to the right and the left, and help those not so clear about what this anthem means (smile) and translate. Show all that we TODAY in the U.S. greet those who RESPECT THIS COUNTRY with open arms, (because that is how it has become what it it today) English, Scotch, Mexican, Spanish, Australian, and also any other individuals who come from the hundreds of countries around the world.
But please, remember, in the U.S., we love and respect our country, and you just get an earful and/or an asswhopin’ if you try to disrespect the good-ole-USA
Ok Josh you hit the nail on the head if anyone has anything to dispute with you now I hope they come through everyone who agrees with you first.
God Bless the USA
Our Soldiers
and everyone trying to keep the USA the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave
For we are truly he land of the Free because of the Brave
Two remarks:
1. I remember singing the Star Spangled Banner, in English, as a kid, and being mystified. It takes more than a translation to understand it. I suggest that the short history lesson required would actually do more good than the translation.
2. I became aware of the Spanish translation of the Star Spangled Banner (it hit the national news) at the time that the illegal immigrants were flexing their muscles in an attempt to influence national policy. It struck me, at the time, (in the words of others) as an indication of “a refusal to assimilate”. My initial reaction (after about 24 hours of fuming) is shown in comment #1, above. My later reaction, in comment #174, addresses the much larger issue of “official English”, with an intermediate reaction at comment #33. Comment #174 has little to do with the actual translation of the Star Spangled Banner, and expresses my current attitude. I think I’ll stand by it.
well, in my opinion, it doesn’t matter that the anthem is sung in spanish. they did it in spanish, so the people that doesn’t speak english can understand it. you may ask, why don’t they learn english?? well many people that are here illegaly , have to work long hours, why?? because they get paid $6 $7 an hour, sometimes they work monday through friday, and they dont have time to go to a school. we are not gonna be singing it in spanish, it’s just a way to understand what it really means. ex. if they give you something to read in english, (and you know english) but its your second language, you are going to understand it, but if they give it to you in spanish you might understand it better, see its significance, a word or two that you don’t understand makes a big difference. alex.
“The test of our progress is not whether we add more to those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.” Who was the bleeding heart anti-American liberal who spouted off this nonsense? It was Franklin D. Roosevelt. Somebody find some quotes from historical heroes that says something like, “Hating foreigners is good.”
Attention all xenophobes and racists! English is NOT OUR LANGUAGE! While some states have declared it an official language, the federal government has not. So guess what, you are not entitled to expect every person you meet to speak “your” language. You are not entitled to tell people that they should leave the country if they can’t speak the language. If the racist right decides to try and change this, they would continue to degrade what America was founded on–diversity! What does it say on the Statue of Liberty…something about “bring me your poor, your meek, blah blah blah.” As an American W.A.S.P., I am disgusted at the hypocrisy of my fellow Americans. Figure out why your ancestors came here. I have a feeling they weren’t Native Americans. You want to condemn a song just because it was translated to another language. I think you bigots just don’t want Mexicans to learn that this is the “LAND OF THE FREE.” Would you feel better if we rewrote a newer, more accurate version? We could add some lines like, “Land that welcomes no poor desperate people,” or “Home of people with with food and money–go away, poor people! We don’t want to share but would rather disgrace the people who died for this country.” Guess what, people–you did nothing to deserve the decadent lives you lead. How dare you condemn a desperate people for translating a song of a country they like and respect enough to come here and provide services, which most of you would not do for twice the salary. You blame them for working here for their modest wages, but you forgive your peers who take advantage of their modest needs and hire them for profit to provide YOU the food you eat cheap enough that as a country we can afford to waste enough food every year that could feed an entire African country. Then you blame them for not learning “your” language and “frustrating” you. That fried chicken your fat family ate last night…guess what! Paco was working 70 hours at the slaughter house for maybe minimum wage (probably less). And because he’s paid pennies, you can maintain the gluttonous lifestyle you’re selfishly addicted to. You are also mostly embarrassing as about 95% of you xenophobes speak only English, and from my experience, we Americans often don’t speak that one very well either. While you whine and cry about the growing need for Americans to grow tolerant, other nations look down on us as ethnocentric morons who know no language besides their own, despite the fact that 10% of AMERICAN LEGAL CITIZENS SPEAK SPANISH AS A MOTHER TONGUE. You want to make education a prerequisite for becoming an American citizen? I have a feeling that all of you who boast about your German, Polish, Italian, or whatever non-English speaking ancestry you have, do not have ancestors who magically spoke English upon stepping foot on this soil. Sadly they never knew they would eventually have you as offspring who now hold such immigrants in nothing but contempt. This is a sad and embarrassing irony. I no longer may boast to my foreign friends about how tolerant and open-minded America is. I must sadly nod when I hear the heartbreaking insults about America being a nation that harbors hatred from ungrateful decadent capitalistic conquistadors….wait that’s Spanish…god forbid..ok…Capitalistic slavers…barbarians…
You preach about emersion and cohabitation, acting like you want this, but how welcomed do you think the immigrant community feels when you throw such a fit about their attempt to learn about our nation? Stop acting like you care about them and state how you really feel. You simply hate them. Look in the mirror and admit to yourself that YOU ARE A RACIST.
Honestly, how many racist people consider themselves racist? Your rationalizations are about as well thought out as those of the infamous KKK. Stop pretending you’re not sick; that won’t help you get better.
I don’t think it’s so much that our national anthem has been translated into Spanish. That in itself is a rather benign act. It is probably even a good thing… what better literature for an immigrant to learn to translate into English than a classic song that is part of our history, that depicts the sacrifices made by others for the freedom the immigrants come here seeking?
What is wrong with the whole thing is that these illegal aliens seem to want to force the United States to become Spanglish. The first step here is us officially accepting a spanish anthem… the next step is what, a mandate requiring both versions to be played for special occasions? We didn’t do that for any of the other groups of immigrants that came into this country… tell me again why the Spanish should be any different?
English is the common language which the extremely diverse population collectively agreed to learn so that they could work together. This country would not be very functional at all if the 50 states all spoke 50 different languages… it just doesn’t work. To respect other people’s diversity, you have to make the extra effort to learn how to communicate with them. Since we can’t all learn German, Spanish, Polish, Japanese, Chinese, etc., we all agreed to learn a single, common one: ENGLISH.
What really sets illegal immigrants apart from legal ones in a way that should make us want to expunge all illegals from this country?
Illegal immigrants come here with their culture, knowing that the current US citizens will sacrifice their own lives to ensure that have that freedom. They EXPECT us to give them that right, and we agree that they should have it. But in turn… they do not return that same respect to us.
They don’t want to learn english to learn to be a part of us, they want us to learn Spanish to be a part of them. THAT is the problem. The illegals are the ones who don’t care about us, our cultures, or the system which allows us to have such diversity and yet still be united. If they did care, they wouldn’t be trying to force their ways on us, starting with how everything has to be in Spanish just for them. If we are going to be multilingual, then when I have to pick a language to use I want a choice of the native language of every culture that makes up this country, not just the Spanish because they are special.
So screw illegal mexican immigrants. Who really deserves our attention? The people who are here, some who we brought here against their will, who despite our creutly want to become a part of us anyways. Like who? african americans and other races who were brought over as slaves, firstly. What about the native americans? they did originally welcome us here and make an effort to work with us, I hear. And Legal immigrants, including mexican ones, who are truly interested in contributing to american ideals legitimately. We need reform for these people, not the illegal ones who sneak into this county with nothing more in mind than to take advantage of our system without any of the responsibilities associated with doing so.
Im sensing a lot of racism and hatred in these comments. Im an American Citizen born and raised in the US,(Hispanic) with parents that entered this country legally and learned the language, but that does not give me the right to arrogantly condescend towards illegal immigrants. Sure, the European immigrants in the 19th century entered the country legally, but there was no true border and no limitations on immigration back then. You can be damn sure that those same Europeans would be entering this country illegally if there were border restrictions.
Do you think a man or woman who is suffering in another country and has mouths to feed(coming close to starvation) gives a damn about entering a country illegally. Its human nature to do whatever it takes for the ones you love, if entering a country illegally is what is necessary to give your children a better life, go for it. If you truly love someone, you would lie, cheat, steal, die, and kill for them. These illegal immigrants understand the American dream better than some of the same americans that depend on them for all kinds of necessities, not to mention the construction of the home you live in.
Just so you know where Im coming from, YES any foreigner that emigrates to another country must learn the language. NO that does not mean that they are obligated to give up their native language and their culture. ASSIMILATION IS OPTIONAL, but the language must be learned. The puritans that settled in this land came here to preserve their values so that they wouldnt have to assimilate with the British culture.
YES any country has the right to secure its own borders, however my views on these civilian “minute men” are another thing. You think this Spanish National Anthem is controversial, wait till some redneck in Arizona shoots a Mexican Kid crossing the border, then we’ll have some real controversy.
A lot of you dont understand that this Spanish national Anthem was just a song made by pop artists for cash, and publicity. This is not something that is going to replace the English national anthem, our government hasnt recognized it and I doubt we are ever going to here this Spanish version at a little league game. Oh, and by the way, the people involved in making this Spanish anthem are not Mexican, and they are not illegal immigrants, so stop trying to justify your racism of HISPANICS by hiding it behind illegal immigration. True, illegal immigrants dont show their gratitude and respect for being in this country, but they shouldnt have to give that gratitude to people like you who never welcomed them in the first place. I know plenty of people who entered this country illegally who have now made something of themselves, whether they have gotten documented later on or not. Meanwhile I know plenty of legal immigrants and white americans that have been in this country their whole lives and arent worth shi*. Nuff said.
The issue here is not based in language and is not based in immigration. This is being used as a platform for both sides and the issue many of us have with this translation is being drowned out in all the yelling.
The issue is that they purposely changed words and phrases. The author has admitted to this. The errors are not translation issues, they are purposeful rewrites. This is not a true translation. Regardless of the intentions or the belief of the translated songs author he is stepping over the line by changing something that beats at the heart of this country.
Yet… The great thing is… and everyone needs to step back and think about this… that while this translation is controversial and steps over the line… wait for it… this is allowed as this is a free country. God I love America!
Now with regards to immigration I have not heard much that I would call enlightened. We need a better path to citizenship and we need a better work permit program. We are the USA and we stand for freedom. Freedom for all, not just those of us in the US. Freedom is an idea that must be spread. If not then the concept becomes just rhetoric. Those with work permits learn our ways and respect our ways. They take those ways back to their residence and spread those ideas.
Unfortunately this seems to be a war no one wants to win. Racism, terrorism, xenophobia, and fear all around seem to be the prevailing arguments of the day. We will continue to go in circles until we either step up and accept the truth or fall to rhetoric and lose our freedom. Right now I would bet on the latter.
I find it hard to believe that intelligent people feel that insulting and inciting the other side will ever get positive results. Therefore I have to assume that they are looking for a fight and not results.
Meanwhile this album will make millions. I guess controversy sells. What a statement this is for our country. Freedom +1, censorship -1…. lol
Now personally? I think this is stupid politically and the author has harmed the immigration movement. This will stir up the racists and the fear mongers from both sides and they will be the only voices anyone will hear for a while. There are real issues and real points to both sides and these will fall, unheard, to the wayside.
Now while this may seem to be a complex subject with many, many specific examples of why or why not we should reform or how. (I was taught that specific examples were a no-no when debating… dunno, maybe that changed?) I feel that either we reform, make it easier legally, stand for freedom for all and spread the idea or close our borders, lock ourselves in, talk about how good we are because we are “free” and live on the diminishing freedom purchased with the blood of our immigrant forefathers.
Hey, since people seem to be stuck on the language or translation issue I have a few questions. How come there is British English and US English? Do we speak the English of our forefathers? Has our language evolved? Why? I dunno again, I thought language was an expression of ideas, emotion, and thoughts and anything that improves that expression, (say like from a foreign language maybe?), is assimilated and anything else is not…
Just a thought…
I can’t believe what a whining bunch of babies you people are. You’re probably the same people who were ready to crucify Jimi Hendrix for the way he played the Star Spangled Banner at Woodstock. It’s a song people. It’s just a song. It’s not even a good song. You want a song that honors this country, go pop in Ray Charles “America the Beautiful.” It was sung by an African American, one hundred and fifty years ago people would have thought about him the way some of you seem to feel about Mexicans now. Get over yourself people.
VOR… All I can say is you don’t know what you lost until it is gone… Thank God or whatever higher power you believe in for second, third and, fourth chances…
If people want to translate and sing our American National Anthem in other languages…fine. If people want to sing our American National Anthem at American public events in other languages. That’s not fine. That is disrespectful, and very very divisive. And for you bleeding hearts and weak patriots who think we should make everything nicey nicey for the immigrants…What comes next?????? How about we overlay the Mexican Eagle on our flag’s stripes? How about we turn the background Chinese red? How about we put a picture of the Koran in the corner? Then how about we change our national language, the name of our country, or whatever might offend or inconvenience anyone who decides to wander across our borders to “whatever you decide to speak, however you decide to live, it’s ok, this is the good ol’ USA, we hate ourselves and everything we stand for, so we’ll adapt to YOU”
A national anthem in spanish is inane. It ceases to be a “national anthem” if its sung in anything other than the “national language” which, last I checked was still English. What I will never understand is why people expend so much effort to come to this country – legally or illegally – and then try desperately to make it as much like where they came from as possible! If you wanted what you had, why did leave it? America is about compromise and sacrifice for the good of the whole – so either get on board, or get off.
i hate all you dirty illegals. get a legit job and learn to speak english. i have quite a few mexican friends who speak perfect english and work real jobs. and they love america! not some stupid ass spanish version of the national anthem.. learn to speak English dammit
VOR if you believe that it is just a song. Please go to a country that just does not give a ______. WE DO NOT NEED YOU. OUR LANGUAGE IS ENGLISH. I was looking at checker auto parts the other day and on the window most of their display was in spanish. I do not go to them any more. If they want to display in spanish that is up to them, but don’t make it the primary language unless it is in mexico. This is the UNITED STATES learn to SPEAK ENGLISH AND LEAVE THE NATIONAL ANTHEM IN ENGLISH.
Go Ahead, publish the anthem in spanish… but only outside the United States. Maybe the illegals as well as legals planning to try for american citizenship can read or hear what americans, past and present die and/or kill for to maintain. Bottom line…Learn the english language before you apply for citizenship. God Bless America!
Our Country is falling just as the Romans did. Just as we can’t maintain our border and culture the Romans couldn’t either in the latter half of the empire. The Roman borders were overwhelmed by barbarians like Goths, Vandals, and Franks who pilaged, raided and eventually changed all that was Roman and the final stand was when finally the Emperor wasn’t even Roman any more and eventually the capital was sacked in 455 a.d by the Vandals and in 476 a.d the emperors were dethroned. The analogy is that we as Americans can not let this happen to our own country. The Mexicans, puerto ricans, and rest of latin america are like the barbarians coming here in hordes like nomads without a country and coming into our empire that we americans built with our sweat and blood and expect us to change our laws that we established in best interest for our country for them, well hell no! Am I talking about mexican, puerto ricans and other latinos that were born her and parents were born here or are just simply legal citizens, no because I consider you American not Mexican or Puerto Rican but if you want to keep raising you’re countries flag that you no longer swear alligence to instead of the one you should be ten you do fall in line with the barbarians because you are alienating yourself from your fellow Americans to your left and right. Do you think I can go back to France where my ancestors came from and say Hi I’m French but I don’t speak French so I want you to change you’re language to my native language of English so i can fully understand you’re culture? That falls into the category of Bull Shit. But when i sneakingly start to change the national anthem to a different language other than the countries native one than that is a form of treason and should be handled accordingly. America had its rise like the romans and its peak like the romans and now were in our decline like the romans because our penaltys are not stiff enough our people are not loyal enough like crackpot hippies in Vietnam who want universal love, immigrants who want the laws changed, and old dry men in senate who debate instead of act and youth who are poisoned by rapp and hip hop music and culture which is poisoning the american one. As a civilised nation and educated people we must look into the past and see how an empire just like our own lived 2,000 years ago just like our own from daily life to goverment to political problems and if we do not learn from there demise we will surely suffer the same fate. This national anthem issue is just a small one that fits into a greater one and this greater one will depend the fate of this nation in the time to come. I ask all true Americans whether white, black, oriental, or latino heritage to rise up and march and protest while the illegal alien invaders do their stupid illegal protests on our soil right in front of them and drive the foreign invaders back south to their own land with an iron fist so that they won’t make that stupid mistake again of disrespecting our country that we hold dearly and yell together in a loud voice for them to hear that they are not welcomed here and maybe then we will take the first step to saving our country from a downfall that has already occured in the natural course of history
WHY ARE YOU MAKING A BIG DEAL ABOUT THIS!!!!!!!!! I agree with # 5. Most Americans don’t even know the national Anthem, you should be proud that illegal immagrants take notice in it
Sometimes I think the generalizations people make are so disheartening. Not all immigrants (esp. from Mexico) are opposed to learning English while here. Most immigrants willing to take the time to become legal are also willing to take the time to learn the language. Not all immigrants (esp. from Mexico) are illegal. I think that translating the anthem to Spanish, while not necessary would be a kind gesture for the largest minority in our nation. If you were to move to a foreign country and you happened to be a large portion of the population, wouldn’t you appreciate that someone took the time to translate things to English for you to better understand? That’s not to say that you wouldn’t learn the language, but you will always be able to understand/comprehend things better when it is in your native tongue. Same goes for translating the anthem to Spanish. Then at sporting events should we be required to sing both versions, absolutely NOT. Wouldn’t it be great though for fans to hear the national anthem in Spanish say in Miami, especially when nowadays so many of our players are of Hispanic descent. But who am I to say anyone else is wrong . . . all I know is that legal or illegal, immigrants are people too and they shouldn’t be thrown out with the trash just because they’re here without permission. So many of our own politicians and law-makers use our nation’s wealth for their benefit too, but I don’t see them being kicked to the curb with as much zeal or dislike as I do the illegal immigrants. I think we need to crack down from ALL sides.
What most of you are forgetting is that the United States has NO OFFICIAL national language!
So here’s a novel idea:
1. Learn ENGLISH and SPANISH and HEBREW and ARABIC and SWAHILI and every other language you can.
2. Translate the national anthem into all of those languages.
3. Start a dialogue on the differences between languages and why some parts of the anthem may or may not be easily translated.
4. Understand how language is related to culture so you can fully appreciate the Star Spangled Banner in its original form and in its new incantations.
Don’t wrap yourself so tightly in your symbols that you choke. Are national symbols important in uniting a people? Yes. Therefore, the more individuals involved, the better. Remember, we are ALL one people before one god. Our differences should foster discussion, not division.
My wife was Brazilian born, naturalized American citizen. I am native born and speak Portuguese. I am American first and foremost. My national anthem was written in English. My country’s language is English. I am appalled at the cavalier attitude some people have to the illegal immigrant problem that has gotten out of hand in this country. People who sneak into another country illegally are, simply put, CRIMINALS. They have broken the law, regardless of their motivation for doing so. Come live in my country but come legally and learn my country’s language. It isn’t Spanish.
Ok, I’m Mexican, and proud of it. I spent 10 years illegally in the USA because I was 12 when my parents took me over there (and had no say so in the matter). I’m also proud for having learned English and for having learned to live a normal American life in the USA. It was NOT my fault that I was taken there illegally. My parents DID NOT get a green card cause they couldn’t. In order to get a VISA or green card from the USA Consulate in Mexico you need to demonstrate financial stability. This means that if I had had enough money, I would have gotten one, if not then no way I would have been given one by the Consul. Therefore, people who go to the USA illegally CAN’T GET A GREENCARD, that’s why they go to the USA illegally in the first place! (I’m not saying I support illegal immigration) If they were eligible then they would much rather stay in Mexico, and in fact, rich Mexican people seldom, if ever, leave Mexico. THINK.
As I grew up I realized that I was there illegally and when I tried to go to a four-year college I couldn’t because of my status. I came back to Mexico on my own and went to college here (it’s cheaper too). I’m going back to the States soon with a VISA but I’m pretty sure I’ll still get comments from stupid people, you know, the typical ignorant monolingual American (whatever race) who is so closed minded s/he won’t bother learning a second language or some history, those who seem to have no critical thinking skills who’ll think that I’m an illegal alien just cause I use Spanglish or Spanish with other hispanics over there (Even though I’m an English and French teacher now). Anyway…
Now for those here on the comments page who tell illegal immigrants to learn English and all this bull about going to the USA the legal way, you’re stupid. If they don’t know English I really doubt they’ll understand you. lol Try leaving the message in Spanish.
Also, a lot of you seem to forget that this land belonged to the Native Americans, and that Spanish has been spoken in some parts of the USA longer than English.
Now, about the Star Spangled Banner, wtf! It’s just one more translation out of all the previous ones that have been done into other languages. Inform yourselves, brush up on those history classes, try to have some empathy for once in your lives, try to see things from different perspectives, educate yoruselves on these issues. Then comment intelligently.
Y sabía que uno que otro iba a dudar que realmente soy mexicano, así que les escribo un poquito en español para erradicar esas dudillas jajaja. En fin. Se cuidan y si me insultan, que sea con razón sino lo único que hacen es insultar a su propia inteligencia, o falta de la misma.
What has making a Spanish translation available got to do with illegal immigration?
Why do so many posters screaming about this have so much trouble spelling English words correctly?
Why should Americans cling so tenaciously to the language of their suppressor (English)? Hello? We fought a war to be rid of the British.
Why all the fuss over translating a song??? If the Nat’l anthem is the song of the UNITED STATES, then why not translate it into other languages so those folks know who we are and what stands us up?? I am of First American bloodlines as well as European. I was born here. Am I afraid to let others know what we stand for?? Let’s translate this into Russian and see what happens!! Grow up, people!!!
I didn’t read through all the comments on this page, but after reading some of the posts I noticed a comment that came up frequently was… we would NEVER change the words to someone else’s national anthem. Really? You know the song “America,” otherwise known as “My Country ‘Tis of Thee?” Well that’s the exact melody of England’s national anthem: “God Save the Queen” just with different lyrics. To me, that seems much more insulting than translating the song. In translation, you are still keeping the basic meaning, and people are translating it because they LOVE America. We changed the words to England’s anthem not because we loved England, but as an insult to their country, we made the words about America. I can’t believe how arrogant some Americans are. Sometimes I am proud to be American, but after reading the comments on this page, I’m not proud to be in the same country with people who call themselves freedom-lovers but hate anyone who isn’t exactly like them.
No, to all of you that say that your parents learned english. the reason for all you americans knowing english is because your grandparents kids and their kids had kids an as they kept on having kids english was common and they learned like that. Get it through your head that with practice everyone can learn. And about the national anthem im not against them writing it in spanish but i do believe that it should stay in english
to Greg L. . Sir, How can you say the stupid thing you are saying. WHy do you say Mexican illegals. THey aren’t the only immigrants that come to this great country. I can already determine that you are the type of person that says that they come to take our jobs. Anybody that thinks that is wrong. Because they are doing the jobs that no one wants to do and they even get the job done with miserable wages. Honestly you don’t have anything to complain about. I believe that you won’t even want a job on the fields and the majority of the white americans and many people of different races too. WE ARE iN THE 21 CENTURY STOP THE RACISM!!!! IN RESPECT TO THE national anthem in spanish. I belive that iT is controversial but there is really nothing wrong about it and there is not even a misrespect to anyone. NOt even in the U.S constitution is there a place where it says that the national anthem has to be in English only. so what do you complain about? people react with jelousy, our anthem is not going to be stolen or something. It is actually being spread and having it in not just english will make people understand why this country is so great. And no, this country is neither losing Identity. I THINK THAT IT IS BETTER that more people get to know about the U.S in their own language, because that means that this country is so wonderful that everyone wants to come to it. Eventhough I agree that illegal immigration is inmorally, because there are many people that wait even for 10 years to get a VISA AND GET EVEN DENIED. But okay, TO conclude. As Mexicans,chinese, guatemaltecans, brazilians, cubans, europeans, etc, need from this country, WE ALSO NEED FROM THEM TO FULLFILLEVERY OPEN SPACE, WHETHER IN SOCIETY, BUSINESS, AND ANYTHING ELSE. THANKS
WHY! WHY! WHY are we so scared to say something that might “offend” someone else? I’m just going to lay it out there like this–THIS is America, where we speak ENGLISH!! We are bending over backwards to convert and learn the Spanish language for what?? FOR immigrants that come here and settle?! Does anybody remember the old adage “when in Rome do as the Romans do”??? Oh….yeah, maybe we could live by it too once in a while by making the Spanish speaking convert to OUR LANGUAGE and learn, oh I don’t know….. ENGLISH!?!?! Now there’s a thought!! Do I sound a little cynical and sarcastic….MAYBE but then this is a free ENGLISH speaking country and I have a right to say what I feel! To basically speak the truth…the hard facts! Hmmmm…things are getting out of control. Fellow Americans, let’s take back our Country…AND our LANGUAGE!!!!
besides the song, whats up with havings signs every where in enlish and spanish? This is Amarica learn language like the rest of us.
Keep imind that if you want mexicans or any other non english speaker to read your comments you must write it in their language, otherwise its useless for you to waist your time……. get a life people the world keeps turning….don’t worry things will carry on the way they need
i think its great that they would do that ,but wats the point in doin that.(coming from a latina)
To # 3 commentator “go back where you came from” This is really the native american’s land before yours. Wake up! It is people like you that (racially biased) that caused all the problems in this country. Hey by the way are you watching the canadian borders? Lets encourage the Mexicans who live in the US, to all,, collectively,, take a day off from work.
All I can say to you Americans is…..LEARN SPANISH….YOU WILL NEED IT SOON.
I was born and raised in the U.S of A and in my opinion, as far as publishing the National Anthem in translated versions, there is no problem with me. The National Anthem would never be sung in any other language other than English. So why worry?
My parents (U.S. Citizens as well), however, always sing the anthem without even knowing what it says. I’m sure other Non English-Speaking U.S. Citizens find themselves in the same situation and would like to get their hands on a translation.
And with all due respect, addressing those that are sending us Native-Spanish Speakers “back home,” then don’t you think that Native-English Speakers would have to go “back home” as well (Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada, etc.)? None of us are worthy to tell the other “Go home!”
God Bless America
The one thing that ticks me off is uneducated people being “patriotic”. For all of you who said this is our country, I agree with the dude who said it belongs to the Native Americans. I suggest you look up the circumstances under which the “illegal aliens” come to the USA. I’ll give you a hint: It has to do with providing for their starving wives and children. In addition,they do jobs that nobody else wants to do for less money than anyone else would make. And for the record, I’m a 7th grader. C’mon people, this is pathetic. Pull yourselves together!
I cannot believe the egocentrism and racism I am hearing from fellow Americans and quite honestly it makes me sick. Being originally from New Jersey, I have quite a large number of Mexican friends and all you speaking out about telling them to go home and thinking this is about them changing “YOUR” country are ignorantly missing the point. The point is these are a people who are so committed and love the US so much, they want to create/learn/sing the US national anthem in Spanish. It took one of my friends 8 years to finally get a green card to come to the US. Have any of you wanted something so bad, to better the life of your children you have done ANYTHING for 8 years? Except maybe the doctors on this blog who have to go through 8 years of schooling, you should all shut up and ask yourself, what is so important to my life that I could spend 8 years trying to do to improve my families living situation. Good grief, internet blogs should not be a forum for racism, ignorance, or supremacy. Like it or not, its the latin american and other immigrants that are going to rebuild this country from the ground up, because you’re precious white children are too blissfully complacent being rich, spoiled, and a complete waste on humanity.
In 1964, my Spanish teacher taught the pledge of allegiance to us in Spanish, which we recited every morning before our class. I have since taught that and found that there was a completely different awareness about the duties and responsibilities, the sence of ownership offered to hispanic americans that they never had before. It is called inclusion, and if our american revolution is going to continue with out a war, this kind of peaceful inclusion will continue until we will all see the conection that we are irrefutably linked with everyone on our globe. One only has to see what happened to the bankrupt state of Iceland to recognize this. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to share on this space. Karen T.
Let’s be fair America — I think we should all learn the anthem in Spanish, no matter how long it takes us to learn it — right after they start singing the Mexican anthem in English.
As an American citizen, I am appaled at the arrogance and ignorance over this issue. If America is truly the great melting pot, then we should be open to embracing all languages that our citizens speak. If you want to get into the symantics over the song originally being penned in English, may I remind you that English is from England, and the last time I checked, America no longer belongs to England. If America is so superior, then why don’t we speak American? Instead of talking, writing, reading and singing in English, we should be proud to say that we speak/write/read/sing in American.
And finally, may I remind you all that America was stolen from the Native Americans who were here hundred of years before. The early settlers, predominantly European, came here for freedom. Perhaps that’s still why people are trying to come to this country. Why are we so quick to want to build a wall, place armed guards on top of it and post a “Keep Out” sign?
I can’t see a Mexican immigrant doing any more harm to America than America has done to Iraq. Why are we so afraid of Mexicans?
Please, America, remember what this great melting pot is all about and get over yourselves.
Translating the American National Anthem is so deeply wrong as it’s defacing something thats dear to us as a nation. In many respects this is like re-colouring the american flag in yellow purple and pink. It shows disrespect to our great country.
Moreover, this is only furthering the idea that sanish should be an official language of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. It’s very important that when spanish seakers come to our country, they blend in and learn our langauge. This only leads to segregation. We are Americans, This is America, If you want to come to our country you have to become American. Yes, you may speak spanish at home with your family, but that’s where it should end.
People can argue that we’re all descended from immigrants. Yes this is true, but the progression made by the US has been made in a climate of everybody speaking the same langauge and being American.
How can we all be the same, if we don’t even share language in common?
America is not a melting pot of cultures. It’s a country of Freedom and Liberty, found upon Judeo-Christian values, with it’s 1st langauge as English.
I think the primary objection stems from a resentment that many Americans have towards Latinos who do not demonstrate an effort to learn/speak English. I know at my church, Latinos have their own Mass and do not socialize/participate with the Anglo community at all. We are very welcoming and would love to help them learn but it’s almost as though they don’t want anything to do with us. Why did they come here? It’s obviously just an economic thing and they don’t seem to have any pride or interest in being American. Just making money and keeping to themselves.
How incredibly stupid and insulting to all Americans!!! I am of German descent, and my ancestors learned ENGLISH and considered themselves AMERICANS. Are we now to have a German version, an Italian version, a French version, and so on? People who consider themselves anything but Americans should go sing their anthem in their language in another country.
Why can’t our national annthem be in spanish also?
This is suppose to be a free country which means the anthem should be able to be sung in any language that you want to sing it in.
For example, the canadian national anthem is both in english and in french, why can’t our anthem be in english and spanish.
There’s a lot of spanish speakers in american now days. So, we should let the spanish sing it in their native languagge also. I was born here in america, and i learned the spanish language, and a good language, and if you learn spanish, you will have better opportunites to find a job, now days, especially with the economy the way it is!
All you English-only people need to get off your high horse, and stop bringing up illegal Mexicans and the like here. The last I checked, this site is about learning Spanish, and this translation of our national anthem is an interesting and educational example to educate us who wish to learn. Nothing more, nothing less. Get a grip people!
If you’re too close-minded to accept it, go take your rants to some populist, anti-immigration website… and stop trying to educate yourselves.
How stupid is this blog. Even more so, the comments. Translating the National Anthem is akin to the translation of “War and Peace” to english. Who gives a crap? Opening communications from one language barrier to another isn’t evil or unpatriotic or problematic. It is essential, and just plan good manners, to share something you love with others, even if they speak a different language or the color of their skin isn’t the same as yours. As long as I have been alive, I have lived in this country as a citizen, and I have never understood the narrow, short-sighted minds of many of our citizenry. How does this even effect anyone, other then those who benefit from the work done in good faith by others to help spread good will, knowledge and a sense of belonging. I think that is the crux of this whole matter. Those who oppose this, must of them, just don’t want hispanics to feel welcome, or that they belong. THEY DO BELONG! As much as we do. Now stop fighting amoungst yourselves like good little slaves and fight the good fight, fight the ones who are really oppressing us. Our own country. Get your head out of your collective asses America, before it is too late.
How stupid is this blog. Even more so, the comments.
Translating the National Anthem is akin to the translation of “War and Peace” to english. Who gives a crap? Opening communications from one language barrier to another isn’t evil or unpatriotic or problematic. It is essential, and just plan good manners, to share something you love with others, even if they speak a different language or the color of their skin isn’t the same as yours.
As long as I have been alive, I have lived in this country as a citizen, and I have never understood the narrow, short-sighted minds of many of our citizenry. How does this even effect anyone, other then those who benefit from the work done in good faith by others to help spread good will, knowledge and a sense of belonging.
I think that is the crux of this whole matter. Those who oppose this, most of them, just don’t want hispanics to feel welcome, or that they belong. THEY DO BELONG! As much as we do.
Now stop fighting amoungst yourselves like good little slaves and fight the good fight, fight the ones who are really oppressing us. Our own country. Get your head out of your collective asses America, before it is too late.
What he said x 10. Someone should make a video of people from ALL countries singing a line in their own language. E Pluribus Unum, bitches, look it up.
A LITTLE COMMENT FOR THOSE HATER OUT HERE.
THE ONLY REASON IMMIGRANT OR ILLEGAL MEXICAN AS MR. “GREG L.” SAYS BEEN A LITTLE IGNORANT. IMMIGRANT COME TO THIS COUNTRY FOR A REASON. TO GET A BETTER LIFE FOR THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS THE COUNTRY OF OPPORTUNITIES. AND MOST OF THEM ARE SEEKING THE AMERICAN DREAM LETS NOT BE SO GREEDY ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT THIS COUNTRY HAS TO OFFER. AND YES I AGREE WHEN PEOPLE SAYS THAT IMMIGRANTS MOST LEARN ENGLISH… BUT WHEN YOU LEARN A SECOND LANGUAGE IT IS NOT EASY. BUT ANYWAY THERE WILL ALWAYS BE PEOPLE WITH HATE IN THEIRS SOULS… PEOPLE WHO CAN NOT SEE HOW HARD IS FOR THOSE IMMIGRANT THAT COME TO THIS COUNTRY SEEKING THE AMERICAN DREAM. SO HARD THAT THEY EVEN PUT THEIR OWNS LIVES IN THE LINE JUST TO HAVE A BETTER LIFE FOR THEMSELVES AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBER.
MOST AMERICAN WHO HAVE EVERYTHING TO LIVE DO NOT KNOW HOW IS TO LIVE IN A COUNTRY THAT YOU GET PAY LEST THAN A DOLLAR AN HOUR… NOT HAVE ENOUGH FOOD FOR YOUR KIDS AND FAMILY MEMBER.
I WISH THOSE WHO CRITICIZE IMMIGRANT KNEW HOW U FEEL WHEN PEOPLE TALK BAD ABOUT YOU AND YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN THIS COUNTRY FOR ONE REASON TO HELP YOUR FAMILY, AND KNOW THAT IF YOU LEAVE YOU MAY NOT HAVE THE SAME OPPORTUNITIES THAT YOU HAVE HERE.
JUST THINK ABOUT THIS BEFORE YOU MAKE A NEGATIVE COMMENT ABOUT AN IMMIGRANT. WE ARE ALSO HUMANS AND WE ALSO HAVE FEELINGS.
ATT: UNKNOWN.
¡Viva México! ¡Feliz día de la Independencia! 15 de Septiembre
grito, grito! ¡Viva México! grito, grito ¡Viva México!