Is speaking Spanish in an English speaking work environment illegal in Illinois?

Answer 1

Probably not illegal, but certainly rude and inconsiderate to speak in a way that others do not understand you. Many will assume that you are talking about them. If others feel that you are talking about them they may become quite upset with you, perhaps justifiably so. * The legality issue is still undecided, although as it now stands an employer can require ""English only" with a few exceptions. An employer can require employees to speak English when they are actually on the job but not while they are on breaks or during meal periods. Nor can the employer (whether it makes sense or not), require an employee to speak English if he or she does not know the language. The assumption being that if the employer hires a non English speaking person said person cannot be discharged for not learning English. Obviously the matter is unclear in all aspects and will likely remain so for quite some time to come.