WASHINGTON, March 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is set to hold a crucial briefing on Friday, March 21, 2025, designed to investigate the significant impact language barriers have on individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and their access to government services and healthcare. This initiative will delve into how various government agencies, along with recipients of federal funding, both facilitate and hinder language access, identifying challenges and showcasing best practices.
In a statement, Chair Rochelle M. Garza expressed the Commission's commitment to addressing this vital issue, stating, "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 briefing will help identify solutions and reinforce our commitment to breaking down language barriers so that no one is excluded from access to essential services."
According to Commissioner Glenn D. Magpantay, approximately 25.7 million people, or 8% of individuals aged five or older in the U.S., are LEP. He noted that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects LEP Americans, indicating the ongoing relevance of federal guidance to promote equitable access to government services and federally funded programs for these individuals. “Today, 25.7 million or 8% of people ages five or older living in the U.S. are LEP,” he remarked.
The upcoming briefing will feature an array of subject matter experts, including language access researchers, attorneys, and state and federal government officials. Additionally, community advocates and individuals directly impacted by these issues will share their insights during the event. Members of the public are encouraged to contribute written materials to the Commission, with submissions accepted until April 21, 2025. Submissions can be directed to [email protected].
The detailed agenda for the briefing includes:
- Introductory Remarks: 10:00 am - 10:10 am
- Panel 1: Overview of the Current Language Access Landscape: 10:10 – 11:20 am
- Break: 11:20 – 11:30 am
- Panel 2: Language Access in Government Services and Healthcare: 11:30 am – 12:40 pm
- Lunch: 12:40 – 2:10 pm
- Panel 3: From the Field: Community Advocates' Views on Language Access: 2:10 - 3:20 pm
- Break: 3:20 pm - 3:30 pm
- Panel 4: From the Field: The Lived Experiences of Individuals with Limited English Proficiency: 3:30 pm - 4:40 pm
- Closing Remarks: 4:40 – 4:50 pm
- Adjourn Meeting.
The entire event will be live streamed on the Commission's YouTube page. Due to limited space, virtual attendance is highly recommended.
The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, established by the Civil Rights Act of 1957, stands as an independent, bipartisan body charged with advising the President and Congress on civil rights and reporting on the enforcement of federal civil rights protections annually. The Commission's 56 state Advisory Committees amplify its reach by offering diverse perspectives on civil rights concerns at the state and local levels.
As the Commission marks its 70th year of advocating for civil rights, it continues to address pressing issues such as language access, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in government services. For more information about the Commission's work, please visit www.usccr.gov. Stay updated on developments via social media platforms including X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.
In these changing times, the importance of addressing language barriers cannot be overstated, as they represent a significant obstacle in ensuring equal access to necessary services. This briefing aims to illuminate these issues and pave the way toward practical solutions for millions of Americans.
