FEMA’s Language Access Plan

The ability to communicate efficiently and effectively to individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) is critical to the work we do at FEMA. In every disaster, FEMA staff work tirelessly to ensure that we reach out to all disaster survivors, regardless of their language proficiency.

Brighton Beach, N.Y., Nov. 11, 2012 -- Community Relations Specialist's distribute multi-lingual flyer's in 20 different languages to assist Hurricane Sandy survivors with the registration process. FEMA encourages everyone affected to call FEMA regardless of their primary language. FEMA/Ashley Andujar - Location: Brighton Beach, NY

FEMA has further demonstrated its commitment to assist LEP communities by developing a Draft Language Access Plan that outlines how to provide meaningful access to all FEMA programs and activities that impact people with limited English proficiency (LEP). This plan adheres to Executive Order 13166, Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency (August 11, 2000), which states that people with limited English proficiency should have meaningful access to federally conducted and federally funded programs and activities, including services and benefits.

Brighton Beach, N.Y., Nov. 11, 2012 -- Community Relations specialist distributed registration information flyers in 20 different languages to hurricane Sandy survivors. FEMA encourages everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy to register for disaster assistance with FEMA. Photo by Ashley Andujar/FEMA - Location: Brighton Beach, NY

In order to ensure FEMA’s Language Access Plan is a good plan, it is important to receive feedback from the communities we plan to help. This is why FEMA welcomes public and stakeholder feedback on the draft plans through Oct.31, by providing written comments or through participating in stakeholder engagement meetings, including a national stakeholder meeting in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 24, at USCIS Tomich Center, 111 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, D.C.  This meeting will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern Time.  You can also participate via phone by calling 1-888-455-3620 and entering the password (DHS) when prompted.

To RSVP to attend the national stakeholder meeting in person and/or to submit written comments, please email CRCLOutreach@hq.dhs.gov.