Support Language Justice in DC!  WHY is this important? Many members of our community are being denied full access and equality, because DC Agencies continually fail to comply with the 2004 DC Language Access Act.  WHAT is being done? The DC Language Access Coalition (DCLAC), of which CARECEN is a founding member, along with the Student Multiethnic Action Research Team (SMART) have long advocated for reforms. Our efforts resulted in the “Language Access for Education Amendment Act of 2015,” introduced by Councilmember Grosso on February 3rd, 2015. This amendment includes: o A Private Right of Action - the right to seek damages if an individual has been discriminated against on the basis of language spoken; o A Civil Penalty Fund to advance the development language access in the District as accessible - each time an agency is found in violation of the DC Language Access Act they would be required to make a contribution; o Essential support for students learning English in our schools by providing certified ESL staff members in schools with large English Language Learner (ELL) student populations; o Requirements that educational entities employ a Language Access Coordinator; and o Increases in training for staff, teachers, and counselors working with ELL students in our schools.  HOW can I support it? o Sign on to show your support http://www.dclanguageaccesscoalition.org/events-and-meetings.html o Call and email your Councilmembers asking for their support – contact information here: http://dccouncil.us/council o Testify at the hearing for the bill – learn how here: https://goo.gl/7Z5e45 o Tweet your support to @CARECENDC @Language_Access and @cmdgrosso