By Mona Raskin

Recently, I was personally given an invitation by councilman Mitchell Ing to attend a special play based on the true events that took place in the city of Monterey Park during the 80’s.  The battle was over “English” as the official language of Monterey Park! This pronouncement basically referred to the many store signs that were in Chinese.

A very young (17) Scarlett Wong researched the situation, which in turn evolved into a very interesting and informative play (narrative style).

Outstanding casting was as followed, Jeison Azali, Mathew Black, Nancy Brennan, Ewan Chung, Perry Daniel, Jenny Kang, Frank Pepito, Michelle Rios, Ken Seeritaty and Bill Wolski.

The above characters were successfully able to restore this serious situation regarding the newcomers to our city, who were retaining their native language with their store signs, etc.

Over the centuries, immigrants from all over the world found themselves facing similar situations! Their first problem was adjusting to a new language.

Our nation’s founders arrived on our shores with “English” as their language and ever since it has remained our nation’s language.

Unfortunately, newcomers have often faced ridicule for their foreign accents and their mannerisms. In spite of all they felt they had to endure, they wanted above all to have their families to have a better life and education!

The city of Monterey Park may feel the transition has been rather slow, but there already has been signs of improvement as their children have not only acquired a new language but have become outstanding students. Mark Keppel High School has now achieved one of the highest scholastic ratings in California!

If this trend continues, the city of Monterey Park, as well as, our nation will be very proud of our newcomers!