By: Garrett M. Bradford
In a nation as diverse as the United States, ensuring language access is vital for inclusion, equity, and the effective delivery of services to all, regardless of the language they speak. Language access networks play a crucial role in this mission, providing platforms for collaboration, resource sharing, and advocacy to improve language services and policies for government agencies and stakeholders. If you are reading this post, you are likely familiar with the American Translators Association Government Division (GovD) and our efforts to support and connect language professionals working at all levels of government. However, there are other networks that compliment the work that we do. Here, we highlight five prominent networks each contributing uniquely towards improved language access.
The Municipal Language Access Network (MLAN)
MLAN stands as a testament to the power of collaboration among government employees nationwide. This network fosters a community where members exchange resources and forge best practices to enhance language access services. The essence of MLAN lies in its listserv, offering a direct line to insights, updates, and resources relevant to the field. Membership is exclusive to those within government or quasi-government organizations, ensuring a focused and professional exchange of ideas and solutions. Interested individuals can apply for membership via their online form, requiring a work email for verification.
The National Language Access Advocates Network (N-LAAN)
N-LAAN operates on a national scale, dedicating its efforts to combat language discrimination and champion language rights. This organization serves as a crucial platform for language access advocates, enabling them to enhance their expertise, share valuable resources, and strategize effectively. N-LAAN not only advocates for improved policies and laws but also for their enforcement, ensuring that language rights are upheld. Membership to its closed listserv is available to public interest lawyers and advocates, providing a vital channel for communication and collaboration. To join, interested parties should reach out via email to N-LAAN@groups.io.
The Multilingual Community of Practice
The Multilingual Community at Digital.gov plays a crucial role in ensuring governmental digital content is accessible in multiple languages, thereby supporting the mandates of Executive Order 13166. The diverse group of professionals, including translators and UX experts, collaborates to enhance the quality and reach of digital information. Their efforts are vital in bridging language barriers and providing equitable access to government services, reinforcing the importance of multilingual digital communication within the public sector. Eligibility is extended to those with an official .gov or .mil email address. To join, send an email to fmwc-request@listserv.gsa.gov with “Join the Multilingual Community” in the subject line.
The Federal Agency Language Access Working Group (FedLAWG)
A fresh addition to the landscape, FedLAWG offers a unique platform for language access stakeholders to interact directly with federal civil rights staff and language access coordinators. This working group enables participants to engage in meaningful discussions with federal agency representatives, providing feedback that can shape the planning and improvement of federal language access programs. By fostering a collaborative environment, FedLAWG seeks to enhance the effectiveness of language access initiatives at the federal level. For those interested in contributing to the working group and/or joining the FedLAWG mailing list, start by reaching out to Manushri Desai, Paralegal Specialist at the Federal Coordination and Compliance Section, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice (manushri.desai@usdoj.gov).
The Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR)
Established as an unfunded federal interagency organization, the ILR stands out for its dedication to the coordination and dissemination of language-related information and activities across the federal government. It serves as a crucial resource for federal departments and agencies, offering insights into the latest advancements in language learning, usage, testing, and technology. Joining the ILR mailing list provides a gateway to language-related developments in the federal government, making it an invaluable tool for government entities committed to enhancing their language capabilities. To join and stay informed about the ILR’s monthly meetings, interested parties can visit the ILR FAQ page.
Further Resources and Networks
The journey towards comprehensive language access does not end with these networks. For those looking to delve deeper or find additional resources, lep.gov/community-organizations provides a gateway to a broader landscape of groups and organizations dedicated to language access.
As we delve into the realm of language access, the roles of networks like MLAN, N-LAAN, Digital.gov’s Multilingual Community of Practice, FedLAWG, and the ILR cannot be overstated, each serving as a beacon for collaboration, advocacy, and innovation. For those of us in the field of government language services, engaging with these networks offers an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the collective wisdom and resources aimed at enhancing language inclusivity across the United States. I encourage our professional community to explore these networks further, joining forces to enrich our expertise and impact.
And now, a question for you: Which language access networks or groups have you found valuable in your professional journey, and what insights can you share to inspire and guide others in our field? Let us know in the comments.