The Importance of Language Access During Elections: How You Can Help Non-English Speakers Vote
As the 2024 elections approach, the need for effective language access is more critical than ever. Language access ensures that every voter, regardless of their English proficiency, can participate fully in our democracy. With over 21% of Americans speaking a language other than English at home, it’s essential that we work together to empower non-English speakers in our communities.
What is Language Access?
Language access refers to providing services, information, and resources in multiple languages, enabling individuals who are not proficient in English to fully engage. This includes offering ballots, voting instructions, and other essential materials in languages that assist voters in understanding the process.
The Impact of Language Barriers on Voter Participation
The United States is home to a rich diversity of languages and cultures. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 21% of Americans speak a language other than English at home, with about 8.6% reporting limited English proficiency. These language barriers can hinder understanding of voting procedures, candidate platforms, and ballot measures, leading to lower voter turnout among non-English speakers.
In the 2020 elections, areas with high populations of non-English speakers saw significantly lower participation rates. This underscores the urgent need for action.
How You Can Make a Difference
If you know someone who is a non-English speaker, here’s how you can help them successfully navigate the voting process:
- Share Voting Information: Help friends, family, or community members understand their voting options. Share information on how to register, where to vote, and what to expect on election day.
- Utilize Available Resources: Inform them about valuable resources for language assistance. Key resources include:
- CanIVote.org: Offers comprehensive state-specific voting information, including language assistance options.
- League of Women Voters: Provides nonpartisan information about the voting process, including multilingual materials.
- Asian Americans Advancing Justice: Focuses on language access and voter engagement within Asian American communities.
- NALEO Educational Fund: Offers resources specifically for Latino voters, including Spanish-language information.
- Encourage Voting: Remind non-English speaking friends and family members about the importance of their vote. Discuss candidates and ballot measures in a way that resonates with their values and concerns.
- Accompany Them to the Polls: If you can, offer to go with them to their polling place. Your presence can provide reassurance and help them navigate any language barriers they may face on-site.
Empowering Non-English Speakers Together
Language access is crucial for enabling non-English speakers to engage actively in the democratic process. When individuals can understand their voting options, they are more likely to participate and advocate for their interests. By assisting non-English speakers in our communities and utilizing available resources, we can amplify diverse voices and strengthen our democracy.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2021). Language Use in the United States: 2019. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov