Language is often a problem for international solidarity. Fluency in English is a key element for global outreach, which hampers smaller grassroots groups especially in countries or areas where English is not generalized.
Languague courses therefore may become a very useful assistance for these marginalized groups. The English language in that context is not a sign of "cultural imperialism" but a way to give a voice to the voiceless and in particular to help them convey through their own spokespersons (and not through "foreigners") their views and perceptions on a particular issue.
The Iranian protesters have shown that they have very talented English speakers that can connect with the international community. However a lot of the protest takes place in Farsi and therefore in a well-meaning move Google has started a system of automatic translation. However the results are a little bit confusing, as this story from CNN relates.
http://edition.cnn.com/2009/TECH/06/19/iran.internet.google/index.html
Saturday, June 20, 2009
The Iranian protests lost in Google translation...
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