Advancing Language Justice - A Call to Action for Philanthropy
In our diverse society, funders have a responsibility not only to acknowledge and respond to this diversity but also to lead by example. A critical step to acknowledging this diversity is by advancing language justice. Language justice goes beyond exercising people’s right to receive information in the language they speak. It goes beyond translations. It means proactively seeking and listening to these diverse voices. The strategies to advance language justice must be in support of an overall mission, and are only realistic or sustainable when they reflect organizational priorities.
Language justice also involves continuously working to dismantle communication barriers and addressing the systems and processes that created these barriers in the first place. There’s a reason why the first step is always admitting there’s a problem. A self-assessment can uncover ageism, existing biases, and even subtly racist assumptions. Unintentional practices can have deep, long-term ramifications for entire communities.
With the rise of digital communication and increasing demographic shifts, addressing language barriers has become more critical than ever. In the context of systemic racism and growing diversity, The SCAN Foundation recognizes that language justice is a part of collective efforts to advance health equity in aging. As we navigate these trends, our commitment to language justice ensures that we are not only breaking down barriers but also addressing broader issues of inclusion and equity within our communities.
Those of us specifically working in aging-related fields, including the philanthropic sector, understand that peoples’ needs intersect; they are dynamic and complex. These complexities require structural change through the development of an understanding and connection to the communities we serve. These connections made through trusted partners are what elevate our efforts and create greater impact for marginalized communities and everyone as a whole. Some of us are addressing the needs of marginalized communities, while others may be at the very beginning of their philanthropic journey to address concepts like sharing power with communities and what types of lived experience are required to build community voice.
Here are five proactive ways to advance health equity utilizing language justice:
- Understand Demographics and Language Needs
To communicate effectively, it’s essential to understand the changing demographics of our audience. This means speaking to people in the languages they use and at the proficiency level appropriate for them. By doing so, we can ensure that our messages are not only understood but also resonate with the diverse communities we aim to serve. - Move Beyond Translations
Translations alone are insufficient for achieving language justice. We need to actively dismantle the structures that have historically marginalized non-dominant languages and their speakers. This involves working in partnership with communities to develop truly equitable communication practices. By involving community members in the process, we ensure that our communication strategies are culturally relevant and accessible. - Avoid “Insider Speak”
One significant barrier to language justice is the use of “philanthro-speak” by funders and public agencies. This jargon can marginalize and exclude those unfamiliar with the terminology. At The SCAN Foundation, we are committed to making our communications as accessible as we can, and routinely work with partners in the disability and accessibility space to get their advisement and recommendations. Clear and inclusive language ensures that everyone, regardless of their background, can engage with and understand important information.
- Build on Inclusive Language
People-first language humanizes our communications. Using language free of bias is crucial, as is including diverse voices. As we work to include the voices of marginalized communities and people with disabilities, we must also confront stereotypes, including socially acceptable prejudices like ageism. - Lead with Empathy
One communications equivalent of the idiom “walk a mile in their shoes” is “fill out forms written in another language.” Put yourself in your audience’s role: would they be able to read, access, or understand the information you are conveying?
Organizations that have successfully implemented language justice into their broader focus on advancing health equity in aging include the Equity Community Organizing (ECO) Group in Cloverdale. As a grantee of The SCAN Foundation, they ensure multilingual access and cultural sensitivity in their outreach and engage local older adults in addressing health inequities through inclusive initiatives like “charlas y cafecitos” (Coffee and Conversations). Another grantee is Greater Good Studios who consider language and culture equally in their work with communities.
The Path Forward: Make a Commitment
Inclusive communications should reflect, not replace, the programs and services advancing your mission. The implementation of language justice requires both an organizational commitment and a commitment of resources. Meeting the community’s diverse linguistic needs and prioritizing your communications solutions, may necessitate engaging the community through convenings or advisory councils, retaining professional translators, hiring bilingual staff, recruiting volunteers, leveraging technology, and more. While you may face challenges and resistance to change, this investment ultimately enhances accessibility and broadens your audience, making your messages inclusive and effective.
Achieving language justice and equity is an ongoing process requiring dedication and collaboration. By working together in and with communities, we can build a more just and equitable society. At The SCAN Foundation, we are dedicated to this mission and will continue striving to make our communications and our engagement efforts as accessible and inclusive as possible.
Language is a powerful tool for social change. Let us use it to break down barriers, foster understanding, and build stronger, more engaged communities. Together, we can create a world where every voice is heard and valued as we age, ensuring that equity is not just an aspiration but a reality for all.