Earlier this summer, during my opening remarks for the 2025 National Conference on Ending Homelessness, I talked about how the word “gritty” embodies those of us working to end homelessness. To me, this means a fighting spirit, resilience, determination, resourcefulness and an overall inability to quit. This is exactly what we are witnessing from the homeless services community in Washington, D.C., as the Administration’s aggressive actions against people experiencing homelessness and others have been carried out.
As other cities like Chicago and Oakland are threatened with similar actions we are going to need to muster every ounce of that grit we have to continue our work to serve every person with dignity, compassion and evidence.
Supporting Each Other
Folks in our field are generous in spirit. Over the last few weeks, we have heard from people all over the country looking for ways to help the local organizations on the ground in Washington, D.C. In response, we curated a list of potential ways to support local efforts: How You Can Help D.C. Service Providers During the Federal Homelessness Crackdown – National Alliance to End Homelessness.
As the tactics used by this administration continue to become more harmful and aggressive, let’s all continue to look after each other.
HUD Ends Translation Services
Earlier this month, HUD notified employees that all translation services for materials or services would be discontinued. HUD has removed its Limited English Proficiency Initiative page on its website, and it appears as though they have started removing online materials in languages other than English. This change will most certainly make it difficult for those with limited proficiency in English, including U.S. citizens, to access needed government assistance and guidance. HUD previously offered services in over 200 languages, including translation hotlines and multilingual forms.
Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, we urge communities to continue to take reasonable steps to ensure that those with limited English proficiency have meaningful access to your programs.
Moving Forward
It may not always be visible but please know, the team here at the Alliance is working hard to support you. Whether that be in conversations we’re having on the Hill, guidance that we are developing, or research that we’re working on, it’s all in service of you and those you serve in your communities. We thank you for your trust and partnership.
This week we will be launching a new Advocacy Bulletin and accompanying webinar (Wednesday 8/27 at 1pm EST) exclusively for those signed up for our advocacy alerts, which will provide key updates, guidance, and more. In the months ahead, the Alliance will be kicking our communications and advocacy efforts into high gear, finding new ways to bring together leaders from across the country, and developing and disseminating guidance to the field.
You might also be interested in
Stay Updated: Solutions, Stories, and Ways to Make an Impact
Sign up to receive updates on the Alliance’s work, including the latest research, advocacy efforts, and real stories of progress — plus ways you can help drive lasting change.