This edition’s editorial stance is on the February decision of the Frederick County Board of Commissioners to make English the “official language” of Frederick County. This means that all “official activities” will be conducted in English. Frederick is the first county to make English its official language in Maryland, a state that does not designate English as the official language. Some see this decision as a symbolic necessity, while others criticize its potentially discriminatory effects.
The editorial board is opposed to the decision to make English the county’s official language. Depending on how it is used, this decision might exclude certain members of the community from the discourse. If English is already the dominant language in a community, a law like this that has the potential to be discriminatory is not needed.
Catherine Collins, editor-in-chief
Stacey Axler, news editor
Vesper Arnett, lifestyle editor
Maegan Green, sports editor
Josie Wawrzyniak, advertising manager
Katrina Castner, web editor