Language access

Community language assessment

Which languages are spoken in our community?

Identify the most commonly spoken languages in the area that you serve in order to help define your plan to meet those language needs. 

One comprehensive and easy to use resource is the mapping tool from The Civil Rights Division that you can find in lep.gov as Language Map App.

You may prefer to use this research as an opportunity to build or strengthen relationships in your community. Ask your partners what languages are being spoken and how they are providing language access, and discuss your program’s plans to increase its own language accessibility. Groups that receive federal funding should have their own Language Access Plans, ask for a copy. Some groups to contact include:

• Local government and administration, such as town or city halls, courts, school districts, and departments of health.
  
  
• Service providers, such as area hospitals and health clinics.
  
  
• Educational institutions, such as local universities, community colleges, elementary and high schools.
  
  
• Community groups, such as faith groups, merchants and business associations, and community-based organizations.