Launch of Language Access Philly
This executive order challenges us to better serve our residents, our global business community and visitors.
By LILIAN WEHBE May 13, 2016
Our team was thrilled to attend yesterday’s launch of Language Access Philly!
Mayor Jim Kenney signed Executive Order No. 7-16 -- the order creates Language Access Philly, a city-wide program that seeks to reduce barriers to services and information for Philadelphia's limited English proficient (LEP) populations, and established the Office of Immigrant Affairs (OIA), formerly the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant and Multicultural Affairs (MOIMA). The measure effectively requires that all city departments prepare and implement language access plans that are later overseen by the Office of Immigrant Affairs.
“Philadelphia is one of the most diverse cities in the country,” Mayor Kenney said yesterday. “As residents, workers or visitors who contribute to City life, people with limited English proficiency are entitled to fair and equal access to service. This executive order will continue to move the City in the right direction of providing meaningful services to citizens across the city.”
Director of the Office of Immigrant Affairs, Miriam Enriquez, lead yesterday's launch. She said, “The Office of Immigrant Affairs is pleased to lead the City of Philadelphia in ensuring that limited English Proficient persons can access City programs, services and activities. This executive order challenges us to better serve our residents, our global business community and visitors.”
Miriam, we couldn't agree with you more. Nationalities Service Center has made language access a priority since its founding in 1921. We're committed to enhancing access to resources and information for limited English proficient (LEP) individuals. Learn more about what we do and why it matters here.
Read the City's official press release here.
