Language Access

The Language Access Program ensures that all City and County of Denver community members have equal access to programs, services, and activities, regardless of English proficiency.

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.150(PDF, 512KB) 


Neighborhood Language Map

The Neighborhood Language Map can help you identify populations, languages, and community resources for each of the Denver neighborhoods. Data in this map comes from the U.S. Census, City and County of Denver agencies, and Denver Public Schools. Click on “Map Layers” in the top right corner of the map to access information you need. If you have any questions or feedback, please reach out to us at languageaccessprogram@denvergov.org! 

 


Language Access Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a limited English proficient individual?

If English is not your first language and you have a limited ability to read, speak, write, or understand English, you might be limited English proficient, or "LEP." You may be entitled to language assistance to access city services.

What is Executive Order 150?

Executive order 150 establishes language access guidelines that all city agencies under the mayor must follow.

EXECUTIVE ORDER 150

What are my rights as a limited English proficient speaker?

As a limited English proficient individual, you have the right to receive language assistance such as interpretation and translation when interacting with City agencies. City agencies must provide language services to individuals free of charge.

How do I know if there is interpretation and translation available?

All City programs should provide reasonable access to interpretation and/or translation services by request. To request any of these services at no cost to you, please follow guidelines of the agency you are trying to connect with.


What do I do when a city agency will not provide me with an interpreter?

If a City agency will not provide an interpreter, translate documents, or expects you to bring your own language support, or use your kids as interpreters, you can file a complaint. 

 To file a complaint with the City:

  1. Complete the City and County of Denver Title IV Complaint Form
  2. Email: titleVI@denvergov.org
  3. Or Mail: 

ATTN: Title VI Coordinator  
Title VI Policy and Plan  
City and County of Denver  
Agency for Human Rights  and Community Partnerships  
Colfax, Dept 1102 Denver, CO 80202

To contact the HRCP Anti-Discrimination Program: 

  1. Fill out the form on the HRCP Anti-Discrimination Program website
  2. Or contact the Director of the Denver Anti-Discrimination Office, at DADO@DenverGov.org or (720) 913-8458
  3. Go to Denvergov.org/TITLEVI to check for updates on your complaint

To submit a complaint to the U.S. Department of Justice:

  1. Complete the Department of Justice Title IV Complaint Form
  2. Email: DOJLAWG@usdoj.gov
  3. Phone Number: (303) 454-0100
  4. Or mail: 

ATTN: Federal Coordination and
Compliance Section – 4CON
Civil Rights Division
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20530

Interpreter Workforce Training Program

The Interpreter Workforce Training Program provided community members with the necessary tools to become community language interpreters. The program ended in April 2024.

More Information/Report

Contact Information

Connect with the Denver Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships' Language Access Team: languageaccessprogram@denvergov.org


City and County of Denver Resources

The City and County of Denver operates without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, immigration status, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, source of income, military status, or disability in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights act of 1964, the Restoration Act of 1987, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), and related statutes and regulations in all programs and activities.

For More Information & To Submit a Complaint

Submit a Report with the US Department of Justice

Denver Police Department Language Access Policy


Federal Resources

Language Access

On April 5, 2012, the Attorney General announced revised policies to ensure that Department of Justice staff take reasonable steps to provide limited English proficient persons with meaningful access to their programs and activities.

Learn More

Language Assistance Services

Click the link below to access the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division's policy to take reasonable steps to overcome language barriers to programs or activities, at no cost to the limited English proficient individual.

Connect with Services

Limited English Proficiency

Federal Government Limited English Proficiency official website:

LEP.gov

Executive Order 13166

Executive Order 13166, "Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency," (English|Español) was signed on August 11, 2000 and requires Federal agencies to examine the services they provide, identify any need for services to those with limited English proficiency (LEP), and develop and implement a system to provide those services so LEP persons can have meaningful access to them.

Full Article

Title VI

Title VI Guidance for Recipients:

Find Your LEP Guidance for Recipients


State Resources

State Courts

Working with State Courts to remove language barriers.

Colorado Judicial Department

Memorandum of Agreement

Read the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the US Department of Justice and the Colorado Judicial Department:

MOA