I wanted to provide an update on an action we sent to you a few weeks ago.
On behalf of many NILC supporters, we submitted a petition to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) advocating for a universal language access symbol. This symbol is crucial in ensuring that individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) can easily identify when in-language services are available. It is an important step towards holistic language justice for immigrants.
We are now urging HHS to expedite the implementation of this symbol, which could significantly improve health outcomes for millions of people by making health care more accessible and equitable.
We will continue to advocate for this crucial change and will provide an update as soon as we have one.
Sincerely,
Ben D’Avanzo
Senior Strategist, Health Advocacy
National Immigration Law Center
Friend,
At NILC, we believe that everyone, regardless of where they were born, should have equal access to health care. But far too often, language barriers prevent people from receiving the care they need, resulting in poorer health outcomes.
In the United States, there are over 25 million people with limited English proficiency (LEP), and many of them are immigrants who are trying to navigate our country’s already complex health care system.
The ability to seek care and live a healthy life should never depend on what language you speak. That's why we have been tirelessly advocating for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to take action — and our hard work is paying off.
HHS just announced it is seeking feedback on whether and how it should develop a universal language access symbol to indicate the availability of in-language services at hospitals, insurance companies, and government agencies. This is a vital step forward that would transform how health information is disseminated.
We need you to help us show HHS that there is widespread support for the universal language access symbol. We only have until May 20 to demonstrate as much support as possible. Will you join us by signing our petition? >>>
A universal symbol would help people with LEP know how and when to ask for information in their preferred language, and if implemented effectively, it could drastically improve access to health care.
If you have 15 seconds, please consider adding your name to our petition, which we will deliver to HHS on May 20.
Your voice matters. Your signature could be the catalyst for change, leading us towards a world where language is never a barrier to health care access. Thank you for lending your voice to this critical cause.
Sincerely,
Ben D’Avanzo
Senior Strategist, Health Advocacy
National Immigration Law Center
