#United States #Washington, D.C. #Language Access #Civil Rights #Limited English

U.S. Commission on Civil Rights to Hold a Public Briefing

On March 21, 2025, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights will conduct a significant public briefing centered around the theme of language access for individuals who have limited English proficiency (LEP). This gathering seeks to critically assess the impact of language barriers on citizens' access to essential government services and healthcare. This event is crucial for the millions of Americans who are often excluded from accessing necessary resources simply due to the inability to communicate fluently in English.

Chair Rochelle M. Garza stated, "The Commission is dedicated to ensuring that all individuals can access the resources they need to thrive. Millions of Americans rely on government services and federally funded programs, yet too many face barriers simply because English is not their first language." This mission underscores the crucial need to identify solutions to enhance language access and to eliminate the barriers that hinder LEP individuals.

The preliminary statistics reveal that approximately 25.7 million Americans—around 8% of the population aged five and older—are categorized as LEP, facing various challenges when navigating government services. Commissioner Glenn D. Magpantay remarked, "The Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects LEP Americans, and longstanding federal guidance aims to ensure all individuals receive equitable access to essential services."

During the public briefing, experts in language access, which includes attorneys, researchers, federal and state officials, as well as community advocates and affected individuals, will share their insights and experiences. The Commission welcomes public input in the form of written comments, which can be submitted for consideration ahead of the report's release, with a deadline set for April 21, 2025. Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected]

Event Details:

• - Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
• - Time: 10 am - 4:50 pm ET
• - Location: U.S. Commission on Civil Rights

1331 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 1150
Washington, D.C. 20425
(Entrance via F Street)

The agenda for the day is dynamic, including a series of panels that address the current landscape of language access, practical challenges in government services and healthcare, and community perspectives that highlight the lived experiences of those facing language barriers. The day includes several opportunities for discussions, networking, and testimony from community members.

While there is limited physical space for attendance, the briefing will be live-streamed on the Commission's YouTube page to encourage broader participation. This reflects a commitment to transparency and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of LEP individuals are amplified and heard.

The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, established as a result of the Civil Rights Act of 1957, serves as the only independent, bipartisan entity responsible for advising the President and Congress on civil rights issues. The Commission conducts annual evaluations and produces reports on federal civil rights enforcement, ensuring continued progress on civil rights matters, particularly for vulnerable groups.

As the briefing approaches, stakeholders at all levels are encouraged to explore updates at www.usccr.gov and to follow the Commission's activities on social media platforms like X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.

In this era where effective communication is essential for service delivery and human rights, addressing the barriers that stand between LEP individuals and the services they deserve is a vital step forward in a more inclusive society. This upcoming event signifies a renewed commitment to reform and improvement in this essential area, aiming to redefine access and equity at all levels of government services.