With a population of 332 million inhabitants in the U.S. (United States Census Bureau), 13 percent of them speak Spanish at home. That means a rough estimate of 43 million people speak Spanish as their primary language, making bilingual materials in any and all spaces essential for increased accessibility. I spotted this same need at John Heinz, starting with a large family who attended an archery event. I was working at the interactive Animal Pelt table and noticed multiple kids of that family running around, but when they reached our table, they got quiet. They listened and observed as other kids cycled through with questions. When I heard their guardian call them over in Spanish, I took the opportunity to approach the family and start a conversation. The kids immediately lit up, and fired all the questions they could possibly think of at me. Inspired by this experience, I proposed a project for long-term accessibility to Spanish-speakers who visit the refuge. This project consisted of translating the John Heinz Refuge map materials and the summer activity guide from English to Spanish, with the end-goal of providing them to the public. I completed the translation in mid-July; the activity guide (cover pictured) has already been printed and distributed, while the map is in the process of being printed on a larger scale for permanent availability. The activity guide debuted during a joint event with the nonprofit Puentes de Salud with a group of bilingual kids, just a few days after it was completed. My hope is that the outcome of this project can showcase the importance of establishing long-term resources for Spanish-speaking communities. As America’s first urban refuge, John Heinz has led the way for diversity and inclusion in nature. I am proud to continue this legacy, and make space for Spanish speakers and the Latine community as a whole at the refuge.

Sources:

• https://www.forbes.com/sites/soniathompson/2021/05/27/the-us-has-the-second-largest-population-of-spanish-speakers-how-to-equip-your-brand-to-serve-them/
• https://www.census.gov/popclock/

Image Caption: On the left, a picture of Karla Sofia Garcia and another John Heinz intern, Rinnah Acquay, at the archery event mentioned in the story. On the right, the cover of the summer guide in Spanish: “Guía de Verano 2022”.

Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Program: US Fish & Wildlife Service

Location: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum