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EOIR Language Access Plan

EOIR Language Access Plan
Language Access Plan

A - The Language Access Working Group

In 2012, EOIR created the LAWG consisting of representatives from each of its adjudicatory components and administrative offices and tasked to report on language access issues to the respective heads of their component. 

The LAWG developed the first language access plan in 2012. In preparation of the first Plan, the LAWG collected information concerning EOIR’s interactions with LEP persons and completed a language access survey. Further, the LAWG held a stakeholder meeting with non-governmental organizations regularly involved in immigration and/or LEP issues. 

The LAWG reconvened regular meetings in 2021 and currently reports to EOIR’s Deputy Director through the Assistant Director, Office of Policy (OP). The LAWG is led by a chair designated by OP’s Assistant Director. 

In updating the Plan, the LAWG conducted an agency self-assessment regarding language access and reviewed EOIR’s current language access initiatives. The Working Group’s responsibilities are as follows: 

5 elements describing Language Access Group Responsibilities which include: 1. Update and maintain an updated language access plan, including the development and recommendation of future language access initiatives. 2. Provide advice and recommendations on language access procedures in EOIR proceedings. 3. Identify areas in EOIR’s communications channels, including EOIR’s website, social media posts, emails, and other communication, to increase language access and improve information dissemination to releva