Surrey Council approves first-ever Multilingual Communications Policy
During the Regular Council Meeting on Monday, Surrey City Council officially adopted its first-ever Multilingual Communications Policy aimed at enhancing communication accessibility for the city's diverse population.
Surrey, BC – During the Regular Council Meeting on Monday, Surrey City Council officially adopted its first-ever Multilingual Communications Policy aimed at enhancing communication accessibility for the city's diverse population. This landmark decision underscores Surrey’s commitment to serving its residents in an inclusive and equitable manner.
“I am proud to bring in Surrey's first-ever Multilingual Communications Policy,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “As one of Canada’s most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities, this policy is long overdue. By breaking down language barriers, we are paving the way for enhanced public engagement and a more cohesive and engaged community. The Multilingual Communications Policy is not just about translation; it is about understanding, inclusivity, and ensuring that every resident feels valued and informed.”
The Multilingual Communications Policy will guide the City’s translation efforts, focusing on critical communication that impacts health, safety, and community initiatives, among other areas. The Policy will be implemented in phases and will prioritize translation of key communications, including vital safety information, major initiatives, and significant Council priorities. Utilizing a data-informed approach based on Canadian Census data, the City will ensure that translated materials meet the diverse linguistic needs of its residents.
“The City plans to engage third-party translation services alongside internal expertise, ensuring that communications are accurate, culturally nuanced, and effective,” said Joey Jatinder Singh Brar, General Manager of Corporate Services, City of Surrey. “Initial implementation will focus on reaching residents who speak languages represented by 5% or more of the population, with ongoing evaluations and feedback to continuously improve the process.”
This initiative aligns with the City’s broader goals of inclusivity and improved governance through enhanced accessibility to information. The adoption of the Multilingual Communications Policy is set to transform how the City interacts with its diverse communities, ultimately fostering a stronger sense of belonging and civic participation among all residents.
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