Language Access Program

The City of Madison Language Access Program ensures people with language access needs can access City programs and services. with language access needs means:  

1. People who prefer languages other than English   
2. People with a disability who use services and/or supports to communicate  

Language Access Plan 

The Language Access Plan(opens in a new window) is the City of Madison's policy for making sure you can get and share information in your preferred language or way of communicating.  

Equal Access to City Programs:  

1. You have the right to free interpretation and translation in your preferred language  
2. You have the right to disability-related communication support  

The City’s Language Access Plan informs City of Madison staff, leaders, elected officials, and contracted vendors on policies, procedures, and practices for meaningful access to City services.

How the City Shares Information  

All Communications   

All City communications are available in all languages upon request.  

 Vital Communications  

All vital information is provided in the City's primary languages – Spanish, Chinese and Hmong.  Vital information is time-sensitive or needed to:  

• Access City programs, activities, services, or benefits  
• Exercise legal rights   
• Avoid negative physical, financial, or legal consequences  

Emergency Communications  

During emergencies, the City will take steps to make sure information is accessible in English, Spanish, Hmong and to d/Deaf and disability communities. These steps will depend on the type, urgency, and level of the emergency.  

Services  

Interpreters  

The City will make sure that you have an interpreter when you visit or call a city office. We have phone and video remote interpreters available in most languages 24 hours a day. You can also request an in-person interpreter for meetings and events.   

You never have to bring your own interpreter. But you can choose to have an adult you know interpret or help with communication instead of a city-provided interpreter.   

You can email lap@cityofmadison.com to request translation of any document.  

Language Access Program Equipment  

The following equipment is available by request for use by members of the public and people applying for employment:   

• Assistive Listening Devices  
• Tablets: Tablets can be provided as needed for Video Remote Interpretation at public meetings.  

Community Connectors   

Community Connectors (“Connectors") are available to support language access for people who speak Spanish, Chinese, and Hmong. They make sure that people can be active contributors to City decision-making.   

The Connectors help you access City services by:   

• Building relationships with community organizations  
• Raising your perspectives  
• Shaping services and solutions reflecting community needs  

Check out the Connectors on different media including:   

• Hmong Radio on WORT 89.9  
• Conectando con tu Ciudad on LaMovida Radio 1480 WLMV-AM  
• Facebook  
• YouTube  
• WeChat  

Contact the Connectors at CommunityConnectors@cityofmadison.com   

How to File a Compliant  

If you are experiencing discrimination when using city programs or services, you can make a language access service complaint to the Department of Civil Rights- Equal Opportunities Division.  

ADA Grievances  

Submit an American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Grievance to Rebecca Hoyt, Disability Rights and Services Specialist (ADA Coordinator) at RHoyt@cityofmadison.com or 608-266-6511.