Marshallese Interpreting for Community Inclusion
Project Description:
The Marshallese Interpreting for Community Inclusion (MICI) project is designed to reduce communication barriers to accessing disability supports and services in the Marshallese community through provision of training and information that is communicated in culturally and linguistically appropriate methods. The University of Arkansas (UA), through the College of Education and Health Professions, Partners for Inclusive Communities (Partners) collaborates with the Marshallese Educational Initiative (MEI), and SeSo, Inc. to provide interpreter training for bilingual adults who are fluent in Marshallese and English as well as trainings on Marshallese history and culture for disability service providers, educators, etc. The MICI project addresses language barriers and equitable access to disability services in the Marshallese community by providing appropriately trained interpreters who also serve as cultural liaisons for information on cross-cultural views on disability and accessing services. MICI strengthens community capacity and support project sustainability by providing ongoing professional development to experienced Marshallese interpreters to serve as facilitators and mentors.
MICI provides interpreter training, training sessions provided to disability service providers, networking opportunities between the Marshallese community and disability service providers, including informational sessions for Marshallese families.
Core Function(s):
Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Other - Cultural Diversity, Other
Target Audience:
Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Limited English, Specific Groups
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State, Regional
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
