TAAF Statement on the Revocation of Language Access Executive Order

Since its founding, the United States has been home to a rich tapestry of languages, ethnicities, and cultures, reflecting the communities that have shaped and strengthened this nation. And for nearly 25 years, federal agencies have been required, through Executive Order 13166, to ensure that their services are accessible to non-English speakers. 

The Administration’s decision to revoke this landmark policy poses a threat to communities and individuals for whom English is not a first language. It allows federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to reduce or halt language assistance. Asian Americans, the majority of whom are immigrants, and a third of whom are limited English proficient, stand to be especially harmed. This includes our elders, small business owners, and vulnerable community members who already struggle to access government resources and programs due to language and cultural barriers.

At TAAF, we believe that language access is fundamental to safety and belonging for all communities in our country. We will continue to work with our grantees and partners to further this vision for a welcoming society.