MIS
Federal Laws Pertaining to Sign Language Interpreters
There are numerous state and federal laws that may apply to providing an interpreter. The most commonly known is the 1990 Americans with Disability Act (ADA). It states that public entities (like a medical office, hospital, legal office, counseling office, and much more) are required to provide ‘effective communication’ for their deaf clients.
This also pertains to companies that have deaf employees – you must provide effective communication for staff meetings, company functions, etc.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a national law that protects qualified individuals from discrimination based on their disability. The nondiscrimination requirements of the law apply to employers and organizations that receive financial assistance from any Federal department or agency, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). These organizations and employers include many hospitals, nursing homes, mental health centers and human service programs.
Section 504 forbids organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. It defines the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in, and have access to, program benefits and services.
Training and Norms For Sign Language Interpreters
Watch Dr. Melanie Metzger, chair of Department of Interpretation, on WAMU’s The Kojo Nnamdi Show opens a new window. In the wake of the controversy over the Sign language interpreter at the Nelson Mandela memorial service, Dr. Metzger discusses the profession of Sign Language Interpreting, and how ASL interpreter’s are trained and certified.
- All ASL interpreters are licensed by the state of Texas.
- Our interpreters always put the ‘deaf’ person first.
- We select the perfect interpreter to fit and match the perfect setting.
ASL Interpreter Services
ISDHH offers Muslim Interpreting Services (MIS) by having licensed professional Sign Language Interpreters. Jessica from Viva Interpreting & Consulting is our official ASL interpreter.
Ivonne Badillo
I started learning sign language at the age of 15 and never looked back. With over 18 years of freelance interpreting experience and 8 years in VRS, I've built my practice on precision, cultural awareness, and meaningful connection. As a Mexican-American and Indigenous interpreter raised on the U.S.–Mexico border, I understand deeply what it means to navigate between cultures and identities. As a Muslim, I carry a personal commitment to ensuring our Deaf brothers and sisters have full access to the beauty of our deen — from Jummah khutbahs to halaqas to everyday community life. My Clothing, Textiles, Fashion and Merchandising BA degree from NMSU sharpened my eye for visual detail, which serves me in every interpreting role — catching the subtleties in signing space and honoring what's communicated beyond words. I'm passionate about bridging the gap so that no Muslim is left out of the conversation.
Sumayyah Tobing
Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh! My name is Sumayyah Tobing and I have been working as a freelance ASL interpreter for the last four years on the east coast. Alongside my freelance work, I am also employed by a a Video Relay Service company and provide interpreting services through them. Alhamdulillah, I just got nationally certified at the end of last year and am eager for the opportunities this blessing from Allah may open up for me. I am passionate specifically about providing access to Deaf and HoH Muslims, whether that be during Jummah, khateras, or community events. I ask Allah that He places me where I am able to do the most good InshAllah. Jazakullah khair! I look forward to working with the VRIC team.
Deb Martinez
Deb Martinez is certified as an Integrative Wellness Coach, a Meditation/Mindfulness trainer, 500hr Yoga Instructor, and an Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor. She was trained as an intentional communication instructor with the Kane Intentional Communication Institute. Her work incorporates various philosophies and approaches drawn from Buddhism, Mindfulness, Yoga, Ayurveda, Internal Family Systems, Nonviolent Communication, and more. She is a nationally certified ASL-English interpreter and is currently a master's student in Dallas, TX studying to be a licensed therapist. Deb welcomes the opportunity to provide service to all who seek wisdom and growth.
Why you benefit from an Interpreter
Below are reasons why you need ASL interpreter; courtesy of Viva Interpreting & Consulting.
