Breaking Through Language Barriers

We have a saying in Cedar Rapids: “Welcome is Our Language.” Welcome is more than an open door. Welcome is an invitation for all our community members to come together and be a part of building our great city. As Cedar Rapids grows and welcomes residents from various corners of the world, enhancing the City government’s multilingual communication has become a key focus in our efforts to include more residents in City processes.

The most common languages spoken in Cedar Rapids are English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Swahili (or other languages of Central, Eastern, or Southern Africa). This linguistic diversity is a testament to the wide range of voices that call Cedar Rapids home.

We are dedicated to overcoming language barriers in our programs and services. Acknowledging the challenge of providing effective customer service to those who may not be fluent in English, the City adopted valuable, welcoming, and certified technology to enhance these efforts.

One example is the use of a smart phone application that provides instant, person-to-person translation services. The “Hands Up” service offers audio and video options, with certified and fluent speakers of various languages. Staff carry simple cards with them while out in the community. The cards let residents quickly identify their primary language so staff can engage a translator when needed.

Staff across the City use this technology, with frequent use by the Police, Fire, Utilities, and Building Services Departments.

The service has assisted Firefighter Ted Wieland several times in his work. “The app has helped us communicate with patients on Emergency Medical Services calls, which in turn improved our ability to properly treat those in need,” said Wieland. “It allows us to quickly connect with interpreters who speak the language we need, such as Kirundi, Swahili, or French. It has been a valuable resource and we will continue to use it in the future.”

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager Elizabeth Buch explains, “Providing City staff with a certified language tool removes barriers. Language tools ensure residents have equitable access to City services, contributing to an inclusive experience for all.”