Laws & Resources
Official resources for individuals, families, and organizations. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Department of Justice guidance explains effective communication duties for covered entities and discusses qualified interpreters and other auxiliary aids. The appropriate approach depends on the person, context and communication involved. Interpreting and other aids can support effective communication.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act addresses special education and related services for eligible children with disabilities. Communication access supports participation in education.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits disability discrimination by recipients of federal financial assistance. Requirements depend on the program and setting. Interpreting may support access in covered programs.
Title VI addresses discrimination based on race, color or national origin in federally assisted programs. It is distinct from disability-access protections such as the ADA and Section 504. Language and civil-rights protections have different legal scopes.
Section 1557 prohibits disability discrimination in health programs, so providers must ensure effective communication with patients. ASL interpreting can support communication with patients.
Video relay supports telephone communication between sign-language users and voice telephone users. It is different from video remote interpreting for a meeting or appointment. Use the right service for a call, meeting, or appointment.
Explore the Department of Labor’s information on Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs and partner agencies. Communication access matters in workforce programs.
ASL recognition & local requirements
Recognition of ASL for education and interpreter requirements depend on the jurisdiction and institution. Check the relevant state agency and school or college rather than assuming one rule applies everywhere. Confirm requirements for the specific setting.
Your questions are welcome.
About ASL, our agency, and arranging communication access.
What is American Sign Language?
ASL is a complete, natural visual language with its own grammar. Meaning is expressed through the hands, face and body. It is not simply English expressed with the hands.
What is Deaf culture awareness?
It means learning about Deaf communities, language, history and shared experiences, while respecting individual identities and communication preferences. Our Deaf Awareness training offers a place for organizations to begin that conversation.
Can I learn ASL with you?
Contact the SAComm team about current ASL learning opportunities and the format that fits your goals.
What makes ASL challenging to learn?
Learning a new language takes practice. ASL involves visual attention, grammar, facial expression and movement as well as vocabulary. Start with your goals and ask about a learning format that fits your experience.
What does Silent Angels Communications do?
We offer on-site and remote ASL interpreting for meetings, training, events and other workplace settings, along with Deaf Awareness staff development. We begin with the people involved and their communication preferences.
What is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
Interpreters work with communication as it happens, including signed and spoken languages. Translation generally concerns prepared or recorded content. Share your materials and setting so our team can discuss the service you need.
How long have you been in business?
Chiquita Jackson-Grant founded Silent Angels Communications in 2020.
Are you faith-based?
Yes. Faith & Worship is a central part of how we serve, including services, Bible studies, conferences and ministry gatherings. Tell us about your worship traditions, program and the people taking part.
Do you cover doctor appointments?
Contact your healthcare provider about communication access for your appointment. You or the provider can contact our team to discuss interpreting availability and the setting. Arrangements and responsibility for the service must be confirmed; do not send private medical details through this website.
Where are you located?
We're based in Waldorf, Maryland, and serve Maryland and surrounding communities with on-site and virtual interpreting.
Stay connected.
Organizations and learning resources connected to Deaf communities and the interpreting profession.
Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
National Black Deaf Advocates.
Potomac Chapter of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
National Alliance of Black Interpreters, DC chapter.
Explore the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders’ introduction to American Sign Language.
Explore language, learning and community at Gallaudet.