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Language and Communications Access

Our goal is to make the City of Boston accessible for everyone.

The Office of Language and Communication Access (OCLA) strives to empower speakers of all languages and communication abilities to receive the full spectrum of services offered by the City of Boston and play a critical centralized role in decision making. 

Contact
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Room 817
    Boston, MA 02201
  • icon-time
    Office hours
    Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Feedback

    Share your feedback with us by emailing:

    LCA@boston.gov

Multilingual Demographic Data Report

Demographic Data Report

About the office

In 2016, Mayor Walsh signed a City ordinance to make the City more accessible for people who use languages other than English (LOTE) or have at least one disability. 

In 2022, the City passed an amended language and communication access ordinance.

Read the ordinance

Three federal mandates support our mission. These laws protect people from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or proficiency in English:

  • Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI
  • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title II
  • Federal Executive Order 13166 (2000)

Our goal is to support City departments in three different areas:

Interpretation

What is interpretation? When you listen in one language and then communicate what is said in a different language. We will offer services on-site and by telephone. We will be able to do this through City staff and third-party vendors. We will also offer interpretation in American Sign Language in person, as well as through Video Remote Interpreting (VRI).

Translation

What is a translation? When you take written text and convert it into another language. A translated document reflects the meaning of the original text as much as possible. We will work with qualified individuals and businesses to provide this service.

Assistive technology

What is an assistive technology? Tools and services that make life easier for those who need more support.  These technologies include:

  • Assistive Listening Devices
  • Interpretation equipment
  • Communications Access Real-Time Translation (CART)
Contact
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Room 817
    Boston, MA 02201
  • icon-time
    Office hours
    Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Feedback

    Share your feedback with us by emailing:

    LCA@boston.gov

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