HUD Implements English-Only Policy Across National Housing Services

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has implemented an English-only policy for nearly all its services and communications, following President Donald Trump's 2025 executive order designating English as the official language of the United States. HUD Deputy Secretary Andrew Hughes emphasized the goal of unifying government communications by speaking with "one voice and one language," and the policy involves removing over 200 non-English translated materials from HUD websites, offices, and publications. While translation services will largely be discontinued to reduce costs and streamline operations, HUD will maintain accommodations required by federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Violence Against Women Act, ensuring meaningful access for people with disabilities. This move reverses decades of multilingual support that helped non-English-speaking residents navigate complex housing systems and access fair housing rights, housing vouchers, and discrimination protections. Critics argue that the policy effectively silences non-English speakers, many of whom are legal residents and taxpayers, making it harder for them to secure housing and engage with HUD programs. The administration defends the initiative as promoting unity and efficiency, though concerns remain about its impact on vulnerable communities.