Tag Archives: Best Sign Language Services

Homeland Language Services Celebrates International Sign Languages Day

On September 23rd, we joined the global community in celebrating International Sign Languages Day. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and inclusivity, highlighting the rich tapestry of sign languages that exist worldwide. At Homeland Language Services, we are dedicated to promoting understanding, communication, and unity through language, and today, we extend our heartfelt support to the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities across the globe.

Sign languages are not just modes of communication; they are the lifeblood of a vibrant and thriving community. They bridge the gap between individuals who have different hearing abilities, offering a unique window into the rich cultural traditions and shared experiences of Deaf individuals.
On this day, we take a moment to recognize the significance of sign languages in preserving heritage, fostering connections, and breaking down barriers.

In line with our commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and accessibility, we are honored to share a message from our President and Co-founder, Luis Lanazca:

“We should consider that ASL goes beyond mere language conversation. It needs to be done with care and requires that the assigned interpreter be an appropriate, culturally competent fit for the individual receiving the Sign Language Support. So, going beyond knowing Sign Language, it’s also important to be a part of the community we’re serving or have an authentic connection and investment in it. This element makes all the difference in an interpretation assignment.

According to the National Census of the Deaf Population, more than half a million people in the US use American Sign Language (ASL) as their native language. ASL interpreting is a specialized field with a limited number of interpreters available, approximately 10,000 in the US. When we consider the requirements of both rural and busy metropolitan areas of the country, we realize that a limited number of individuals have to cover a lot of ground. This includes dividing their time between different agencies, locations, news events, as well as healthcare and educational settings.”

At Homeland Language Services, we continue to provide language solutions that empower individuals and organizations to communicate effectively across languages and abilities.

We encourage everyone to take a moment today to learn more about sign languages and engage with the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Together, we can build a more inclusive world where every voice is heard and valued.

Happy International Sign Languages Day!

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Empowering Through Language: The Inspiring Stories of Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin

In a world that’s increasingly interconnected, breaking down language barriers has become more important than ever. Language is not merely a means of communication; it’s a gateway to opportunities, understanding, and inclusivity.

Two remarkable individuals, Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin, have demonstrated how language and linguistics play a pivotal role in transcending barriers and opening doors for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the inspiring journeys of Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin, highlighting the significance of language in their lives and the broader context of breaking language barriers.

Nadia Nadim: From Refugee to Football Star and Doctor, who knows 11 languages!

Nadia Nadim’s life story is one of perseverance, determination, and the power of language. Born in Afghanistan, she and her family fled their war-torn homeland as refugees, eventually settling in Denmark. As a young girl, Nadia faced the challenge of adapting to a new culture and learning a new language. Despite these obstacles, she used language as a bridge to connect with her peers and her new community. Through her dedication to learning Danish, Nadia not only integrated herself but also excelled academically.

Language played a pivotal role in Nadia’s journey to becoming a professional football (soccer) player. As she honed her skills on the field, she developed a deep understanding of the sport’s language – the strategies, the terminology, and the teamwork required. This linguistic prowess enabled her to communicate effectively with teammates, coaches, and fans, ultimately leading to a successful career as a football star,  who knows 11 languages! 😮 Danish, English, German, French, Swedish, Norwegian, Persian, Dari, Urdu, Hindi, Arabic. Can you imagine?

But Nadia’s story doesn’t stop there. She pursued a medical degree, leveraging her language skills to study and excel in her courses. Today, she stands as a living testament to how language can transform lives, from bridging cultural gaps to achieving personal and professional goals.

Marlee Matlin: Giving Voice to the Deaf Community

Marlee Matlin’s journey has been a beacon of hope and advocacy for the deaf community. As the only deaf actor to have won an Academy Award for Best Actress, Matlin has shattered stereotypes and proved that linguistic barriers can be overcome, regardless of one’s abilities.

American Sign Language (ASL) became Marlee Matlin’s medium for communication and expression. ASL is a distinct language with its own grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. Marlee’s mastery of ASL allowed her to navigate a world that often seemed deaf to the needs and experiences of the deaf community. Through her acting, she demonstrated the rich storytelling potential of sign language, captivating audiences without uttering a spoken word.

Matlin’s advocacy extends beyond the screen. She has been a vocal supporter of closed captioning and accessible media, ensuring that language barriers don’t hinder the enjoyment and participation of deaf individuals. Her efforts have highlighted the importance of linguistic inclusivity and the necessity of making information and opportunities available to all, regardless of their communication preferences.

 

The Broader Context: Breaking Language Barriers for All

The stories of Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin reflect a universal truth: language is a tool that can empower and uplift individuals from diverse backgrounds. Whether it’s through learning a new language to integrate into a new society, mastering the language of a passion or profession, or advocating for linguistic inclusivity, language plays a central role in creating a more equitable and connected world.

As Homeland Language Services, a reliable language provider, we understand the profound impact of language on individuals and communities. Our commitment to breaking language barriers aligns with the journeys of Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin. By providing translation, interpretation, and language access services, we contribute to fostering understanding, collaboration, and opportunity for everyone, regardless of linguistic background.

Nadia Nadim and Marlee Matlin exemplify the transformative power of language. Their stories underscore the importance of linguistic inclusivity in breaking barriers and opening doors. As we celebrate their achievements and advocacy, let us also recognize the vital role that language service providers like Homeland Language Services play in facilitating communication, understanding, and opportunity for all. Together, we can continue to build a world where language is not a barrier but a bridge to a brighter future.

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Embracing Inclusive Language: A Guide to Fostering Belonging and Diversity in Your Organization

Creating a workplace environment where every employee feels a sense of belonging and can authentically express themselves is crucial. One powerful tool to achieve this is the use of inclusive language, which helps eliminate exclusivity from conversations and fosters a more welcoming atmosphere.

In this article, we will delve into the concept of inclusive language, providing practical examples to help you cultivate an inclusive workplace culture and develop marketing materials that resonate with diverse audiences both now and in the future.

Understanding Inclusive Language:

Inclusive language refers to the choice of words and phrases that steer clear of biases, slang, and expressions that discriminate against individuals based on their race, gender, socioeconomic status, or ability. By adopting inclusive language, you can effectively communicate with a broader range of people, ensuring that everyone feels understood and valued.

Examples of Inclusive Language:

  1.  1. Avoid using company or team acronyms that may exclude or confuse individuals.
  3.  2. Opt for plain language in your writing, avoiding complex expressions or jargon that may alienate readers.
  4. 3. Use the pronoun ‘they’ instead of gender-specific pronouns like ‘he’ or ‘she’ when referring to a hypothetical person.
  5.  4. Ensure your company’s designs or visual content represent a diverse group of individuals, fostering a sense of inclusivity.
  6. 5. Exercise mindfulness when using terms related to race, ethnicity, nationality, or culture, ensuring they are used respectfully and accurately.
  7. 6. When discussing family matters with colleagues, employ gender-neutral labels for family members to promote inclusivity.
  8. 7. Show sensitivity to terminology related to medical conditions and disabilities. When unsure, respectfully ask individuals about their preferred pronouns, keeping in mind that some may choose not to identify with traditional pronouns.

Embracing inclusive language may seem challenging at first, but just as we adapt to advancements in technology, environmental concerns, and human rights, we can also cultivate the habit of using inclusive language. By consciously incorporating inclusive language practices into our everyday communication, we create a more inclusive and accepting society.

Remember, fostering an inclusive language environment is an ongoing journey, and small changes in our language choices can have a significant impact on promoting diversity, equity, and belonging in our organizations and beyond.

We are a trusted language solutions provider committed to breaking down language barriers and fostering effective communication across various industries. With a focus on inclusivity and quality, we offer comprehensive language services tailored to meet your diverse needs.

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Understanding ASL Interpretation: A Guide to Effective Communication

As a language services provider, Homeland Language Services offers a range of interpreting services to help bridge communication gaps between people who speak different languages. One such service is American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, which is a crucial component in enabling effective communication between the Deaf community and hearing individuals.

ASL interpretation is a complex process that requires a unique skill set and understanding of Deaf culture. An ASL interpreter needs to be fluent in both ASL and English, understand the cultural nuances of Deaf communities, and have the ability to quickly and accurately interpret spoken language into ASL.

To gain a deeper understanding of ASL interpretation, we spoke to one of our ASL interpreters, Nicole Lewis, who shared her journey and insights about the profession.

  • What inspired you to become an American Sign Language interpreter, and how did you start?

I never thought I would become a sign language interpreter. At the age of 10, I became friends with a deaf girl (with whom I am still an excellent friend to this day) who lived in my neighborhood, and picked up the language to be able to communicate with her. During that time, her interpreter set up an after-school club for anyone who wanted to learn ASL. I then went on and took four years in high school as a language. I was encouraged to attend college to become an interpreter. I am humbled by the support I have had through the years of learning and meeting many people in the Deaf/DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing communities.

  • What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful American Sign Language interpreter, and how do you cultivate those qualities in yourself?

ASL is a language all on its own and is not a direct translation of English to signs, which means someone who interprets ASL needs to be familiar with and obtain the skill set(s) of both languages. An interpreter bridges the gap between deaf and hearing clients. They also need to have deep cultural knowledge and understanding of Deaf culture and their community. I try to cultivate those qualities as well by staying on top of the newest signs, researching topics when possible before interpreting them, and always trying to find the equivalent dynamic of the languages I interpret. I also try to stay abreast of the CPC (code of professional conduct).

  • How do you stay engaged and motivated in your work as an interpreter, and what advice do you have for others who may be interested in pursuing this career path?

Staying motivated isn’t that hard! I have grown up learning ASL and being active in the community and making lifelong friends. Being open to learning, going to workshops, and finding events to attend are a few ways to stay motivated. The Deaf/DeafBlind communities are welcoming to everyone, and the close connections you make along the way hold a special place in one’s heart. My advice to others interested in pursuing a career path in becoming a sign language interpreter is to get involved, make connections, find mentors, never stop learning, and enjoy the journey of learning this beautiful language.

At Homeland Language Services, we understand the importance of effective communication, and our team of skilled ASL interpreters is committed to bridging the gap between the Deaf community and hearing individuals. If you need ASL interpretation services, whether on-site or via video, please contact us to discuss your needs. We are here to help you communicate clearly and effectively, regardless of language barriers.

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American Sign Language – the way to communicate without words

Since 2020, world communication has transformed so differently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It became too much online: from doctor’s appointments to school lessons and business meetings. This period and special circumstances changed our communication fundamentally. We are spending much more time on our smartphones and online calls from laptops or computers. Communication changed for the Deaf or hard-of-hearing communities as well. Even before the pandemic, this segment of the population had obstacles to getting complete services, communication, and care. Fortunately, American Sign Language helps Deaf or hard-of-hearing people to receive access to all interactions they need with the help of video connection or onsite meetings.

Homeland Language Services has an experienced team of American Sign Language interpreters. They provide services both onsite in schools and healthcare institutions. Together with that, we can provide interpretation services online with the help of video calls. This way the American Sign Language interpretation is available to everyone in any part of the world.

American Sign Language (ASL) is a primary language of communication in Deaf or hard-of-hearing communities. About one million people in the USA use ASL as their primary means of communication. Meetings or appointments, accompanied by American Sign Language interpreters, signage, and verbal approaches right on point, the communication can be timely and concise.

 

Best practices for onsite American Sign Language interpreting:

– One of the most essential things for onsite ASL interpreting is to ensure that the interpreter can be in the position directly in the line of sight of the Deaf or hard-of-hearing client. The ASL interpreter clearly should override everything else.

– The interpreter should be aware of the nature of the client’s visit. The client can be in a psychiatric crisis or under COVID-19 or similar precautions, so he/shewould require the interpreter to maintain more physical distance from the client.

– The client should tell his preferences for interpreter gender because some healthcare conversations are sensitive.

– The video device should be set up so the client/patient can see the screen and their hands clearly.

– Take into account, that Deaf or hard-of-hearing clients may also have visual impairments, so the screen should be positioned appropriately.

– During the video call eliminate background noise, and make sure that the room has enough light.

– The English-speaking representative should speak directly to the Deaf or hard-of-hearing client, not the interpreter. The English-speaking representative should speak at a normal pace and tone.

– In case there will be printed documents or written material at the meeting, there should be copies for all participants.

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Sign Language

Sign Language Services: Best Communication Method for Hard Hearing Population

A comprehensive variety of public as well as private services must be accessible to all people irrespective of their disability. All those who are deaf or hard of hearing are need to have sign language interpreters for an effective communication. Such interpreters are of utmost importance when the information which is to be engaged needs effective and clear communication.

When it comes to deaf employees, they do not need interpreters for day-to-day work, but for several other things such as job interviews, staff meetings, business conferences, job orientation and disciplinary meeting to name a few. Best sign language services guarantees effective and accurate services. Nowadays, it is seen that several hospitals as well as health care centers are employing sign language interpreters with the motive to provide smooth communication between the staff and hearing impaired patients.

Why Choose Leading Company for Sign Language Services?

If you choose a renowned company that is engaged in interpreting, translating as well as transcribing, you will be able to get best sign language services for the deaf and hard hearing people. All sign language interpretation services are performed by qualified as well as highly professional interpreters. Such company includes experienced and skilled interpreters who hold great expertise and are specialized in their field. Moreover, the interpreters are certified, well trained and are properly monitored. Continuous feedback is given, which plays a vital role in ensuring that services are qualitative. Hence, choosing such company is the best way to attain world-class sign language services in a streamlined manner.

However, before finalizing the firm you have to focus on experience, services and reviews of past clients. Hence, by considering all these things, you can make the best choice to attain best sign language services.

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