The City of Dallas Language Access team, a partnership between OEI and COM, consists of oral interpretation for City-sponsored events and written translation of City-published public information and documents. In addition to the Language Access Team, the City employs vendors that provide language access services, in up to 200 different languages, as part of our strategy to reach and engage all residents.

Equity, one of Dallas’ core Service First values, drives a commitment to ensure public information is accessible for our multilingual residents. Beyond equity, there are legal reasons to increase Language Access, title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.

What is language access?

Language Access refers to effective strategies and linguistic support to engage and communicate with residents ensuring language is not a barrier so they can benefit from city services.

• Interpretation: The process of adapting oral messages from one language to another.
• Types of In Person/Virtual Interpretation
• Consecutive: Delivered after the speaker finishes talking.
• Simultaneous: Provided in real time while the speaker is talking.
• Translation: The process of adapting written text from one language to another.

Why does Dallas need language access?

43% of Dallas community members speak languages other than English.

How is Dallas Advancing Language Access?

• Providing translation of written public information
• Provide interpretation services for a variety of public meetings, such as Council, budget town halls, listening sessions, public information, and community engagement meetings.
• Utilizing Language Skill Assignment Pay (LSAP) bilingual employees for connecting with residents through conversational skills.

View the Language Map

To learn more about the City’s language access efforts, contact translations@dallas.gov