A recent study from UCLA has highlighted significant challenges faced by Asian communities during the recent wildfires in Los Angeles County, particularly regarding access to critical information about evacuations and recovery efforts. The research reveals that over 12,000 of the 50,000 Asian immigrants and their descendants living in four key evacuation zones—Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, and Hughes—are in need of language assistance.
The study, part of a broader examination of the impact of wildfires on various racial and ethnic groups in the county, found that Asian individuals make up approximately 15% of the population in these areas. However, researchers noted a glaring lack of multilingual communication regarding fire alerts, evacuation procedures, and relief services. This deficiency in communication is particularly concerning given that more than half a million Asian Americans in Los Angeles County are classified as Limited English Proficient (LEP).
Manjusha Kulkarni, executive director of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Equity Alliance, expressed frustration over the situation, stating that many fire alerts were only available in English and Spanish. Some residents reported avoiding evacuation centers due to the absence of interpreters, while others struggled to find online information in their native languages.
In response to these challenges, Kulkarni’s organization created a resource guide available in multiple languages, including traditional and simplified Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese. This guide offers essential information on shelter, housing, and childcare, addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the fires.
The Los Angeles County Coordinated Joint Information Center, responsible for disseminating public information during emergencies, acknowledged the limitations of their alert systems, which are currently restricted to English and Spanish due to federal guidelines. However, county officials emphasized that alerts are just one method of notifying residents, alongside the Alert LA County messaging platform and direct outreach by first responders.
County officials also pointed out that their Disaster Resource Centers have multilingual staff and provide materials translated into several languages, including Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. They noted that many social media messages from county accounts are regularly posted in multiple languages to reach a broader audience.
Despite these efforts, advocates for Asian communities are urging county officials to conduct a thorough assessment of the diverse language needs within these populations. The study indicates that older individuals, particularly those aged 45 and over, are more likely to experience limited English proficiency, which can hinder their access to vital information during emergencies.
Researchers and community leaders stress the importance of tailoring communication to meet the needs of vulnerable groups, including immigrants, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. They argue that government agencies should prioritize outreach to these populations to ensure effective emergency preparedness and response.
As California continues to grapple with the impact of wildfires, this study serves as a critical reminder of the necessity for inclusive communication strategies that address the unique challenges faced by diverse communities in times of crisis.