Closed Captioning and Equal Access for the Deaf

August 10, 2015

Just kidding. The “equal access” part anyway. As a deaf viewer, if you tuned in to watch the much publicized GOP presidential debate, you probably gained very little from the ‘voice to text’ captions that were flashed across the screen. Unfortunately, this has become the norm and deaf viewers are left guessing and confused. Since pictures are worth a thousand words, I thought I’d borrow some screen shots to demonstrate this dilemma. Please play along and try to guess what is being conveyed to potential Deaf Voters.

In order to maintain calm in this age of (un) equal access, it seems the only clear message is from former New York Governor George Pataki whose advice is to “get high.”

GOP debate captions

ASL, closed captions, deaf, equal access, inclusion, slc

About Evelyn

Evelyn Hunter is a SODA with years of experiential study in Deaf Culture. She attended Gallaudet University to immerse herself in this unique deaf world while working for the University and studying sign language to hone her skills. Evelyn has served in training, relationship sales, and marketing -- always seeking to expand awareness of Deaf Culture and the unique challenges the deaf face on a daily basis. The Sign Language Company has recently established a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and a website with a blog, as Evelyn coordinates the marketing and outreach efforts for the agency. Her goal is to attract new clients seeking exceptional service, while maintaining optimal relationships with clients who have selected The Sign Language Company for over 20 years.