Language Access

The Office of Equal Opportunity is responsible for upholding the Policy on Language Access and the University of Rhode Island Language Access Plan. In this capacity, the Office of Equal Opportunity provides technical assistance and strategic leadership to individuals administering University of Rhode Island programs, services, and activities.

Consistent with the Policy on Language Access and our commitment to equal opportunity…

The University prohibits all forms of discrimination in all University Programs or Activities and Services. No person shall be denied equal access to Services based on their ability to communicate in the English language (Limited English Proficient [“LEP”] individuals) or due to hearing/speech impairment (Hearing/Speech Impaired [“HSI”] individuals).

This website and the language used have been introduced in alignment with the United States Department of Justice, Final LEP Guidance, as well as Title VI guidance.

Applicable Statutes, Regulations, and Policies

  • 42 USC §2000d et seq. (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended) (“Title VI”)
  • 42 USC §12101 et seq. (The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) (“ADA”)
  • 29 USC § 794 (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) (“Section 504”)
  • Executive Order 13166 (Aug. 11, 2000), 65 FR 50121
  • U.S. Department of Justice, Final LEP Guidance (June 12, 2002)
  • Title VI guidance of each federal agency that provides Federal financial assistance to the University.
  • University of Rhode Island Policy on Nondiscrimination (as may be amended from time to time)

Policies

Language Access Policy Language Access Plan Policy and Procedures ON nondescrimination

Resources and Vendors

I SPEAK… LANGUAGE IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
INTERPRETING AND TRANSLATION SERVICES
SIGN LANGUAGE AND CART SERVICES
ATT USADIRECT*

*ATT USADirect only to be considered as a last resort if unable to contract with a vendor vetted and approved by the State of Rhode Island.

Quality Control

The University will continuously review the quality of language assistive services following guidance from the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Please review the sample assessment resource for details: Language Assistive Services Quality Assurance Practices. 

Reporting Allegations of Discrimination