Federal grants are fueling a nationwide push to recruit bilingual poll workers, ensuring broader voter access for language minority communities. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) is distributing funds through the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) to states actively seeking to bridge language gaps at polling places.
EAC Chairman Thomas Hicks emphasizes the critical role of bilingual poll workers in empowering all eligible voters to participate fully in the democratic process. Grants are being channeled to 17 states and territories, including California, Florida, New York, and Texas, targeting recruitment, training, compensation, and translation of crucial election materials. Outreach efforts will also expand.
Prioritized languages include Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of the United States. The EAC is collaborating with community organizations, colleges, and utilizing social media to connect with potential bilingual poll workers.
The initiative underlines a commitment to inclusivity, urging fluent speakers of English and other languages to step forward and contribute to a more accessible and representative electoral system. Become a poll worker and ensure every voice can be heard.
