Translation & Language Services
Language Access
Title VI is the primary law mandating access to translation services. Language access falls under national origin protections, meaning federally funded organizations must provide translation and interpretation services to ensure meaningful access for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals.
Executive Order 13166
Reinforces Title VI obligation, requiring agencies receiving federal funding to take reasonable steps to provide free and timely language assistance to LEP individuals.
Individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
Protections for LEP
Individuals who have a limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English. Federal law, particularly Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination based on national origin, which extends to ensuring language access for LEP individuals in federally funded programs. Executive Order 13166 further mandates that agencies receiving federal funding provide “meaningful access” through translation and interpretation services.
How to Support
To assess and document a client’s English proficiency level, service providers can incorporate language identification posters during intake. These allow clients to point to their preferred language, helping determine the need for translation or interpretation services. Additionally, cultural brokers—trusted members of LEP communities—can assist in bridging language gaps and fostering trust between service providers and clients. Finally, providers may also use AI tools like DeepL or Language Line, which offer real-time translation, though human interpreters remain critical for accuracy.
Local Organizations Providing Translation Services
Several state and community-based organizations in Maine offer translation and interpretation services:
Me. Human Rights Comm.
Provides translation of legal documents upon request and assists individuals in filing complaints regarding language access.
Me. Access Immigrant Network
Offers culturally and linguistically appropriate resources for non-citizens who are trying to access healthcare, health insurance and other social services.
Immigrant Resource Center
Provides free cultural brokering and interpretation services for non-citizens, particularly in Lewiston.
Health Equity Program (Portland)
Helps non-citizens access healthcare through cultural brokering, community health worker outreach, translation services.
House of Languages
Translation services, including legal and medical document translation and more.
Maine Dept. of Ed. Resource List
On-demand translation service offering real-time interpreters, frequently used by organizations and government agencies.
The Language Partners
Community members providing translation and interpretation; including access to video and phone interpreters, as well as in-person services,
Other Translation Tools to Use
“Point to Your Language” Posters – Language identification posters that help service providers determine a client’s preferred language and arrange necessary interpretation services. Poster Available Here
Translation Pens – Handheld devices that scan and read aloud text, translating spoken and written language in over 120 languages, including region-specific dialects. Example Product: https://www.cpen.com/.
DeepL AI Translation Tool – An AI-powered real-time translation service that provides human-like translations in over 30 languages. Website: https://www.deepl.com/.