HUD launches English-only initiative for all department services: ‘Speak with one voice and one language’
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will adopt English as the exclusive language for nearly all of its services and communications, according to a newly obtained internal memo.
In the document, HUD Deputy Secretary Andrew Hughes informs department leadership that the shift aligns with President Trump’s March executive order declaring English the official language of the United States. The change is slated to take effect immediately.
“We are one people, united, and we will speak with one voice and one language,” Hughes wrote, framing the move as part of HUD’s broader mission to expand affordable housing and support vulnerable communities.
While the policy marks a significant departure from previous efforts to support non-English speakers, certain exceptions will remain. HUD will continue to provide services in other languages when legally required, such as under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Violence Against Women Act, which contain provisions addressing language access.
The department also affirmed it will maintain communication services for individuals who are hearing or visually impaired.
Under past administrations, HUD provided language support in over 220 languages and maintained interpretation lines for residents with limited English proficiency — a practice rooted in a 2001 executive order by former President Bill Clinton aimed at improving access to government services.
President Trump’s recent order reversed that directive, though it stopped short of mandating changes to services. Nonetheless, HUD opted to phase out multilingual materials, citing potential taxpayer savings.
As part of the rollout, all HUD documents, digital content, and communications will be produced in English only. Offices are instructed to remove any printed or digital materials promoting translation services or available in other languages.
The department will also review existing translation service contracts as it transitions to the new policy. According to Hughes, the shift will be carried out in stages as part of an “ongoing and iterative” process.
The Department of Justice, which issued guidance to federal agencies on implementing the executive order, plans to release updated instructions in about six months, allowing time for public feedback and potential policy adjustments.
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