Where are Sign Language Interpreters Needed?

The train left the station.

The passenger next to me began a friendly conversation and ultimately asked me “In what kind of settings would a sign language interpreter be needed?”.  This lovely lady was unfamiliar with Deaf Culture and was just making polite conversation.  I was afraid my answer sounded a bit ‘flip’, but I replied “Only in places where communication is needed”.  This led us into a discussion trying to imagine all the possible scenarios.  We can start with the most familiar.

1. Medical Sign Language Interpreter – think about it. Visits to the Doctor, Dentist, Chiropractor, Counselor, Physical Therapist,  Surgeon, Group Therapy, Urgent Care and Emergency Room…
2. Legal Interpreter – jury duty, serving as a defendant or witness, consultations to gain knowledge regarding rights and potential actions…
3. Educational Interpreter – elementary school, middle and high school, college, PTA meetings,  training centers, driver’s education classes, workshops, self-help seminars…
4. Entertainment ASL interpreter – Deaf actors, producers, directors, hearing actors needing to learn sign language, production companies needing to learn the inside scoop regarding Culture and body language, stage performances, concerts (lots of deaf people love really loud music!)…
5. Corporate Interpreters – deaf employees participating in meetings and conferences, conventions, collaborations with team members.
6. Personal Sign Language Interpreters – Weddings, funerals, class reunions, job interviews, graduations, religious services, DMV, real estate issues, investment consultations, tour groups, car buying, cosmetic surgeon (no miscommunication wanted here!)…

And the list goes on. Think about your daily / weekly / monthly life and how often clear communication is necessary.  How frustrating would it be to attempt ALL of these transactions using lip reading and writing.  Something as simple as ordering a Happy Meal at the Drive-thru becomes nearly impossible.

In Palm Springs, California, The Deaf Seniors Foundation is thinking ahead. Today, many seniors visit Senior Centers or live in Assisted Living and Retirement Homes across the U.S.  How would you like to live in an environment where nobody understands your language? Your native language is ASL / Sign Language and you are unable to communicate with the residents you see every day. The staff expects you to read lips and write things down.  Complete isolation…

Now imagine the same deaf senior in an environment where everybody can sign. Laughter and hands flying and a sense of community at a delicate time of life…

As our train arrived at the station, I wished I had kept track of the times she said “I’ve never thought about that”.

Here’s hoping that awareness is contagious as we all journey on.