The Region - News from Aug. 6, 1986

The Los Angeles City Council declared its opposition to a November ballot initiative that would designate English as California’s official language. On a 12-1 vote, the council proclaimed Proposition 63 “contrary to our most basic principles of equality and opportunity” and said that if passed, the measure “will result in a sense of inferiority, debasement and shame in one’s own heritage.” Councilman Richard Alatorre, who sought the council vote, called the measure unnecessary and divisive. Although the measure does not specify when English would be mandatory, opponents claim it could mean elimination of bilingual education and bilingual ballots. Councilman Ernani Bernardi, who cast the only nay vote, said he nonetheless opposes the initiative.