#United States #Washington D.C. #Language Access #LEP #Civil Rights

Public Informative Session on Language Access

The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is set to hold an essential public information session on March 21, 2025, focusing on the impact of language barriers on individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). This event aims to shed light on how these barriers hinder access to vital public services and healthcare, an issue that affects millions of Americans.

Purpose of the Session

As outlined by Commission Chair Rochelle M. Garza, the session seeks to ensure that all individuals can access necessary resources to thrive, emphasizing the plight of 25.7 million residents in the U.S. who face language difficulties. Millions rely on federal-funded services, and the session aims to highlight the systemic challenges they encounter. “This informative session will help identify solutions, reinforcing our commitment to breaking down language barriers so that none are marginalized from accessing essential services,” Garza stated.

The session will analyze and discuss how federal and state agencies are currently providing language access services, the challenges they face, and best practices to improve these services.

Who Will Participate?

Experts from various fields will present their insights during this informative day. This includes researchers, legal advocates focused on language access, federal and state administration officials, community advocates, and individuals who have been directly affected by these challenges. This diverse group of participants will provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues surrounding language access and the real-life implications it has on the lives of LEP individuals.

Written Submissions

The Commission will accept written feedback from the public to consider in their report, encouraging those interested to send their material to [email protected] by April 21, 2025. This openness to public input underlines the Commission's commitment to a collaborative approach in tackling these issues.

Event Details

• - Date: March 21, 2025
• - Time: 10:00 AM - 4:50 PM ET
• - Location: U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 1331 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 1150, Washington, DC 20425 (National Place Building, entrance on F Street)
• - Live Stream: The session will also be broadcasted live on the Commission's YouTube page, allowing for wider participation despite space limitations. Those interested in attending are encouraged to join virtually.

Agenda Highlights

1. Introduction (10:00 - 10:10 AM)
2. Panel Discussion 1: Overview of Current Landscape on Language Access (10:10 - 11:20 AM)
3. Break (11:20 - 11:30 AM)
4. Panel Discussion 2: Language Access in Public Services and Healthcare (11:30 AM - 12:40 PM)
5. Lunch (12:40 - 2:10 PM)
6. Panel Discussion 3: Community Advocate Perspectives on Language Access (2:10 - 3:20 PM)
7. Break (3:20 - 3:30 PM)
8. Panel Discussion 4: Challenges Faced by Individuals with Limited English Proficiency (3:30 - 4:40 PM)
9. Final Remarks (4:40 - 4:50 PM)

This event marks a significant step towards improving language access and ensuring equitable services for all residents, illustrating the Commission's ongoing legacy in civil rights promotion since its establishment in 1957. As the session date approaches, attendees are encouraged to stay informed by visiting www.usccr.gov and by following the Commission on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.

For further information, please contact Joe Kim at [email protected].

The Commission's ongoing work is crucial to fostering civil rights for all, as it remains committed to addressing and overcoming the barriers faced by American communities regarding language proficiency.