» Language - Lenguaje - Resources Hispanic/Latino Coalition of Louisville: Providing a voice for the growing & increasingly diverse Hispanic Latino population in the Louisville Metro area.

Language Accessibility

According to federal law, all federal agencies and federally assisted programs must take reasonable steps to ensure that all persons, regardless of their language skills, are provided meaningful access to the programs, services, and information provided by that agency or entity.

Entities that receive funding or assistance from the federal government and that must comply with the law include:

State agencies
Local agencies
Private and nonprofit entities
Entities that receive funding from any of the above.

Visit www.LEP.gov to learn more about language access. Obtain an informational video by visiting: www.lep.gov or you can download it clicking the link to the left.

FAQ’s about Language Accessibility

What happens if my agency does not comply?

Entities that do not comply with federal law regarding language access may be subject to investigation and remedial actions and may even risk losing their federal funding or assistance. Remember, money cannot be used as a reason for not complying.

Who should receive language assistance?

LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENT (LEP) PERSONS. This includes persons who cannot speak, read, or write the English language at a level that permits them to interact effectively with service providers.

Where can I find more information?

Visit www.lep.gov for more information.

Resources for Promoting Language Accessibility

I speak cards

LEP persons take these business sized cards to federal fund recipient agencies to ensure that all agencies are fulfilling their requirement to comply with Title VI. Use the English version and then have an interpreter write the message in any language! Other languages coming soon!

Download customizable versions from HLC post entitled “I speak limited English” cards.

Inappropriate Interpreters

This one-page handout details the pitfalls of commonly used interpreters in the absence of a professional interpreter.

Language Access Brochure

This advocacy tool explains Title VI and who is obligated to comply in an easy to understand manner. Download and customize yours, then share it with an agency that can benefit from learning about Title VI.

Multi-language Poster

This poster has 10 languages highlighted in pretty, fun colors. This can serve as your “Notice” as Title VI requires! Download it and post it!

Sample LEP Policies

Don’t know where to start? Language Accessibility is a journey, not a destination! Download a sample policy and see what seems like a good starting point for your agency! And remember, you can always call us for ideas and suggestions, or tweak these to make them your own!

Breaking Down the Language Barrier Film

Download and visit www.Lep.gov. This site gives you an overview of Title VI and how to comply. Share it with others!

More forms and resources:

consentform_spanish

consentform_english-1

telephone-interpretation-services-site