In 2021, the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners made a commitment to increase access to elections by addressing common language barriers – Cantonese Chinese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and Vietnamese – through collaboration in translation, education, and outreach with speakers of these languages in the Gwinnett community. To expand awareness of linguistic diversity, Gwinnett Voter Registrations and Elections formed nonpartisan Language Collaboration Groups in each of these five languages to help provide feedback on translated materials, assist with public outreach, and help recruit bilingual poll officials.

Outcomes of the Language Collaboration Groups

• With more citizens able to receive election information in their preferred language, we anticipate a higher turnout for elections and a higher percentage of registered voters. 
• Satisfaction rates among voters will rise due to increased accessibility of elections. 
• Elections within Gwinnett County will be more fair, free, and effective due to better ballot accessibility for certain disadvantaged groups.
• The election process will enhance knowledge, promote civic engagement, and strengthen community involvement.

How to Apply

Volunteers in the Language Collaboration Groups meet routinely to review translation and participate in outreach on a voluntary basis.