Addressing Language Barriers for Limited English Proficiency Individuals in the U.S.
Upcoming Briefing on Language Access
Date: March 21, 2025
Location: U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 1331 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 1150, Washington, DC 20425
On March 21, 2025, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is poised to host a pivotal public briefing focused on the challenges language barriers pose to individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) in obtaining essential government services and healthcare. This event will delve into how federal institutions are currently operating concerning language accessibility, the hurdles they encounter, and the best practices that can be employed to enhance these services.
Commission Chair Rochelle M. Garza emphasized the importance of this conversation: "We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the resources necessary for personal development. Millions of Americans rely on government services and federally funded programs, yet too many face obstacles simply because English is not their first language. This briefing aims to establish solutions and reinforce our commitment to breaking down language barriers, ensuring all citizens can access fundamental services."
According to Commissioner Glenn D. Magpantay, there are approximately 25.7 million individuals in the U.S. with limited English proficiency, representing about 8% of the population aged five and older. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was instrumental in providing protections for LEP individuals, and ongoing federal guidelines have supported equitable access to government services and federally funded projects.
Expert Insights and Public Contributions
This upcoming public briefing will feature insights from experts in the field of accessible language services, including researchers, legal practitioners, federal and state officials, community advocates, and individuals personally affected by these issues. The Commission will also accept written submissions from the public for consideration in the preparation of their report. Interested contributors are encouraged to send their materials to [email protected] by April 21, 2025.
Agenda Overview
- - Opening Remarks: 10:00 AM - 10:10 AM
- - Discussion 1: Overview of the Current State of Language Access: 10:10 AM - 11:20 AM
- - Break: 11:20 AM - 11:30 AM
- - Discussion 2: Language Access in Government Services and Healthcare: 11:30 AM - 12:40 PM
- - Lunch: 12:40 PM - 2:10 PM
- - Discussion 3: Perspectives from Community Advocates on Language Access: 2:10 PM - 3:20 PM
- - Break: 3:20 PM - 3:30 PM
- - Discussion 4: Experiences of Individuals with Limited English Proficiency: 3:30 PM - 4:40 PM
- - Closing Remarks: 4:40 PM - 4:50 PM
The event will also be live streamed, accessible via the Commission’s official YouTube channel. Limited space is available for in-person attendance, thus online participation is encouraged for interested parties.
In line with its mission since the 1957 formation under the Civil Rights Act, the Commission aims to advise the President and Congress on civil rights issues and reports annually on federal civil rights enforcement. With a network of advisory committees across 56 states, the Commission continues to shine a light on civil rights challenges in America.
For more information about the Commission and the upcoming briefing, please visit www.usccr.gov.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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