I just had to resurrect this thread because it is one that is close to my heart.
I am American born, but speak several languages, not because I have to, but because I just enjoy learning languages and pick them up quickly. I can remember a time back in the 70s when WDW was still bilingual, but intead of the monorail announcements being made in Spanish an English, they were made in English and Japanese, because Japanese tourists were the number two largest group visiting WDW and, at that time, were going through a booming econo my and had more money to burn than we had in the US. It was quite common to see Japanese tourists in the 70s purchasing one of eveything in sections of gift shops (such as porcelain figures, stuffed animals, etc). Between the Japanese economy going into recession and the construction of TDL, you see few Japanese tourists in WDW these day, but you do see many hispanic groups, though many are from Brazil (which speak Portugese). Also, Kissimme, and areas around Orlando are becoming filled with Spanish speaking residents. So why Disney would consider marketing to those grous I can understand.
That being said, I have 2 problems with the whole bilingual issue. If you go to Japan, not everyone speaks English. They are mandated to take 8 years of the language in school, but rarely do they learn enough to be able to carry on a conversation. There are places in Japan who have signs posted that state if you are not Japanese (or speak Japanese) you are not welcome...and that is legal in Japan. If you are going to be able to function effectly in Japan for any length of time you must know some Japanese (although I am told that you can get around larger cities more easily). And, you can walk into establishments in the US where no one speaks English..and where they will let you know (more by action than anything esle) that gringos are not wanted in their store/restaurant/etc and some will even refuse to serve you. In this country if you discriminate against other groups (race, ______, disability) it is against the law...welll, this is also discrimination, pure and simple. If you are moving to a new country to live you should learnthe language...and the laws.
The other problem I have is...whose responsibility and cost will it be to make certain that some Spanish is learned? Is WDW going to pay for classes or will the $6.75 per hour worker have to pay? will WDW set up classes or will the Cms have to take classes outside of WDW?