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In a letter in the March 18, 2003 issue of The ASHA Leader, Paul Imbert characterized the recent focus issue dealing with multiculturalism as "outdated class warfare strategies of the Clinton administration." This statement is both disturbing and historically inaccurate. Mr. Imbert further states that any reference to a person's cultural background or sexual orientation is discriminatory. Such an approach would signal a return to the days chronicled by Ralph Ellison in The Invisible Man, wherein members of ethnic minorities exist without a voice and without a presence within the larger society. It is not fairness and impartiality to pretend that no differences exist—it is a fantasy, likely to result in the very discrimination the writer condemns.
Within our lifetimes, Jim Crow segregation has been defeated, interracial marriage has been legalized, and television and film have begun depicting persons of other than European ancestry as intelligent and capable. Many other steps have been taken to right the wrongs of racism in our society, but a few decades cannot undo the work of centuries.
Our profession has always sought to provide optimal care to all persons with communication disorders. As our knowledge grows, we extend practice in new areas. Awareness of the impact of multilingualism and multiculturalism is absolutely essential to modern ethical practice. Any practitioners unwilling to educate themselves on the clinical impact of bilingualism risk grave ethics breaches, such as inappropriate and discriminatory diagnostic practices. We salute The ASHA Leader for keeping the membership focused on this critical area of practice.
Lynne Hewitt
Bowling Green, OH
Adele Miccio
Cambridge, MA
Carol Hammer
State College, PA
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