Language Assistance FAQ

Where did these services come from?

On August 11, 2000, then-President William Clinton signed Executive Order 13166: Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency, to clarify Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It had as its purpose, to ensure accessibility to programs and services to otherwise eligible persons who are not proficient in the English language.

This executive order stated that individuals who do not speak English well and who have a limited ability to read, write, and speak or understand English are entitled to language assistance under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with respect to a particular type of service, benefit, or encounter.

 What actions will the City of Detroit take?
  • With advance notice of seven calendar days, the City will provide interpreter services at public meetings, including language translation and signage for the hearing impaired.
  • Ensure placement of statement in notices and publications that interpreter services are available for public meetings.
  • The “I-speak” Language Identification Card will be distributed to all employees that may potentially encounter LEP individuals. 'Right to an Interpreter' posters shall also be placed in each City department's office. 

The complete list of actions can be found in the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan.

 What type of discrimination falls under Title VI?

There are two types of illegal discrimination prohibited under Title VI and its related statutes. One type of  discrimination, which may or may not be intentional, is “disparate treatment.” Disparate treatment is defined as treating similarly situated persons differently because of their race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age.

The second type of illegal discrimination is “disparate impact.” Disparate impact discrimination occurs when a “neutral procedure or practice” results in fewer services or benefits, or inferior services or benefits, to members of a protected group. With disparate impact, the focus is on the consequences of a decision, policy, or practice rather than the intent.

The City of Detroit has a Title VI Non-Discrimination Plan to resolve complaints of discrimination.

 What can I do if I have been denied language assistance?

If you feel you have not been provided meaningful access to city services, including adequate interpretation services or have denied an available translated document, you may submit a grievance to the City of Detroit’s Civil Rights, Inclusion, & Opportunity Department. After receiving the grievance, the Department will contact you and provide you with updates on what is to happen next. Please refer to the Title VI Non-Discrimination document for complete details. The document is located on the CRIO Department's Civil Rights page.