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Resources for the Madison Community
Madison stands with the families of Abundant Life community. This page is dedicated to connecting victims and the broader community to resources and accurate information about the tragic events that happened on December 16.
Key Terms
- American Sign Language (ASL) – A language used predominantly by individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing, which uses syntax that is distinct from spoken English.Those who communicate in ASL as their primary language may or may not be able to speak, write, or lip-read in English.
- English as a Second Language (ESL) – A term used to describe the use, study, and teaching of the English language by non-native English speakers in an English-speaking environment.
- Individual with a primary language other than English - A person who does not speak English as their primary language, and who has a limited ability to speak, read, write, or understand English. These individuals are entitled to language assistance for a particular service, benefit, or encounter.
- Interpretation - Interpretation is the conversion of a spoken message from one language to another while preserving the intent and meaning of the original message.
- Meaningful access – Individuals with a primary language other than English receive adequate information, understand the services and benefits available, receive the services they are eligible for, and can communicate their situation to the service provider.
- Over-the-Phone Interpreter (OPI) services (also known as telephonic interpreter services) – A means of interpretation that allows 24/7, on demand access to interpreter over-the-phone through a vendor with whom the City has contracted.
- Primary languages – The set of languages which includes English, American Sign Language (ASL), and the top three languages most commonly used in Madison, other than English.
- Qualified bilingual staff – An employee who provides services in two languages and has had their language skills properly assessed and vetted. As part of the hiring process, this employee has been tested for their fluency in both languages and has a position description that identifies providing services in multiple languages as part of their work duties and responsibilities.
- Translation - Translation is the conversion of a written message from one language to another while preserving the intent and meaning of the original message.
- Video Remote Interpretation (VRI) – A means of interpretation which incorporates a computer or two-way video screen. It can be used to provide an individual with simultaneous signing or spoken interpretation of a conversation or meeting.
- Vital documents – Information or documents that are critical for accessing federally funded services or benefits, or are documents that are required by law.