Hempstead Town To Provide Spanish Translators At Meetings

The Town of Hempstead announced on Monday that it was taking steps to hire bilingual translation services for use during Town Board and other official meetings. The town has already solicited proposals from qualified firms.

“Greater outreach to diverse, bilingual communities is important," said Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney, the leader of the Republican majority of the Town Board. "We need to make sure that people of all backgrounds and languages are being included during our public hearings and governmental forums. Language barriers continue to present major challenges to people in Hempstead Town and across the nation. These translation services, once properly procured, will help ensure that all residents will be fully informed and engaged as to the legislative process in the Town of Hempstead.”

According to the town, Census data shows that among town residents whose primary language is Spanish, there has been a 34 percent increase in those who don't speak English fluently. That's 15,000 people in Hempstead Town alone.

“I strongly support bringing bilingual translation services to our Town Board," said Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby. "As the representative for a district with a diverse and bilingual population, I know how important it is to break down the barriers between residents and their government. This will help people of all backgrounds to know how to get the help they need from their Township.”

Numerous studies have shown that language barriers create impediments to access to healthcare, legal and public safety services, town officials said, as well as in law enforcement. Governmental bodies and public entities have taken steps to increase bilingual programs and document translation. In 2018, the town started to translate Animal Shelter adoption forms and other documents into Spanish.

“My grandparents brought my mom and her siblings to the United States from Puerto Rico over six decades ago and were met with many challenges," said Councilman Anthony D'Esposito. "I'm proud to be part of an initiative to break down barriers and find solutions to similar challenges.”