Description

SESSION 4:

The Importance of Language Access Planning

This presentation delves into the imperative of language access planning within organizations serving diverse communities, particularly in contexts of domestic violence and sexual assault support. As demographic shifts continue to diversify linguistic needs, it becomes crucial for service providers to develop robust language access plans that ensure all individuals can receive help regardless of language barriers. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the legal requirements, strategic planning processes, and practical tools for implementing effective language access services. Through case studies and expert insights, participants will thoroughly understand how strategic language access planning can enhance service delivery and foster equity in access to crucial support services.

Objectives:

• To educate participants on the federal and state legal requirements for language access, emphasizing the ethical implications of providing equitable services to all clients, including those with limited English proficiency.
• To guide attendees in the essential components of a comprehensive language access plan, including needs assessment, resource allocation, staff training, and monitoring and evaluation strategies, ensuring that plans are effective and sustainable.
• To equip participants with practical tools, resources, and best practices for implementing and improving language access services in their organizations, enabling them to respond adeptly to the linguistic diversity of their communities.

Presenter: Jose Juan Lara Jr., MS, Systems and Advocacy Senior Program Manager, Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence

This training was supported by Grant No. 2020-WF-AX-0043, 15JOVW-21-GG-00555-STOP, and 15JOVW-22-GG-00412-STOP awarded by the state administering office for the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice's STOP Formula Grant Program. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this training are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the state or the U.S. Department of Justice.