Comprehensive Analysis Calls for Improved Language Services to Ensure Equal Voting Rights for Limited English Proficient Voters in Utah
Salt Lake City – The ACLU of Utah Foundation, Inc. (ACLU of Utah) today released its final report under the “A Right To Understand: Language Access in Utah” legal research campaign. This comprehensive effort concludes with a new in-depth report titled “Language Access is Voter Access”, highlighting language barriers faced by Utah voters. The reports were researched and authored by Andrea Daniela Jimenez Flores, former Immigrants’ Rights Policy Analyst at the ACLU of Utah, during her fellowship.
Equal access to voting goes beyond casting a ballot, it encompasses understanding the ballot and making informed choices. When language barriers prevent individuals from fully participating in the electoral process, the fundamental right to vote is compromised. Limited English Proficient (LEP) voters, in particular, face significant obstacles that hinder their ability to engage in our democratic system. This report includes a detailed overview of language services offered by Utah counties before and after the 2023 election, providing a roadmap for improving voter access.
“Language access is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a civil right. Language Access is Voter Access, and this election, we are focused on empowering voters, including LEP individuals, by ensuring they know their rights and have the resources to make informed decisions,” said Aaron Welcher, Communications Director for the ACLU of Utah.
The full report is available here.
Explore the complete “A Right To Understand” series here.
Read this press release here.
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