The Office of Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (OANC) is committed to ensuring that every ANC Commissioner regardless of language, hearing, vision, or communication ability can fully participate and engage with the Community. In partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Disability Rights (ODR) and the Office of Human Rights (OHR), OANC provides advice, guidance, and support ANCs in meeting the Districts commitment to provide equitable access to information, meetings, services, and programs across all eight wards.
Translation & Interpretation Services (LEP/NEP Residents)
The Language Access Program, managed by the Office of Human Rights (OHR) ensures that residents who are limited or non‑English proficient (LEP/NEP) receive equivalent information and services from the DC government. The program exists to eliminate language barriers and ensure that all District agencies communicate effectively with all communities.
Through OHR, ANCs can access:
Free interpretation services for public meetings, events, and interactions
Translation of ANC documents such as agendas, minutes, outreach materials, and notices
Support in identifying the appropriate languages for communities served
While services are available for any language, the District focuses on the six most commonly requested languages: Amharic, Chinese, French, Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
Effective Communication for Deaf, Blind, and Hard of Hearing Residents (DDDBHH)
The Effective Communication Program at ODR’s Division of Deaf, Blind, and Hard of Hearing (DDDBHH) ensures that District programming is accessible to individuals who use American Sign Language (ASL), rely on assistive listening devices, require Braille materials, or need assistive technology to receive information.
Through DDDBHH, ANCs can access:
ASL interpretation, including Hearing and Deaf interpreters
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
Assistive Technology Devices (ATDs)
Braille materials
How to request DDDBHH services:
ANC Reimbursement for Language Access Costs
Under the Advisory Neighborhood Commissions Omnibus Act of 2016, ANCs may receive reimbursement for expenses related to supporting residents with limited or non‑English proficiency. This program helps ANCs remove financial barriers to providing high-quality language access at meetings and in printed or digital outreach.
Eligible Reimbursable Costs
Interpretation for meetings or proceedings (in‑person or video remote)
Document translation, including agendas, resolutions, flyers, and outreach materials
Purchase or rental of assistive listening systems
Non‑Reimbursable Costs
The ANC Omnibus Act of 2016 does not include reimbursement for American Sign Language (ASL) services.
ASL support must be requested directly through ODR.
How to Submit Language Access Translation and Interpretations Services Reimbursement
Submit the ANC Reimbursement Form, along with invoices, quotes, and proof of payment to: [email protected] and [email protected]
Need Help or Have Questions?
For additional assistance with language access, translation, interpretation, or the reimbursement process, please visit the Office of Human Rights website or email: [email protected]