News

Proposed language access policy for Long Beach falls short: Commentary

Long Beach has long styled itself as an international city. Its motto is Many Unique Neighborhoods, One Great City.

The reason our neighborhoods are unique is the languages, cultures, and cuisines of our diverse residents. Long Beach proudly advertises that it is home to the largest population of Cambodians outside of Cambodia. It is also home to cultural institutions such as the Khmer Arts Academy, Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum, and the Museum of Latin American Art.

As a benefit of the city's diversity, our residents speak many different languages. In Long Beach, 45.5 percent of our residents speak a language other than English at home.

Topics:
  • Civil Rights