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What Role Does Civility Play in the Sign Language Interpreting Profession?
If the work we do as sign language interpreters requires that we convey messages not only with words but also with our demeanor, shouldn’t we consider what our demeanor conveys? I propose that demeanor is the face of civility and the effective use of civil behavior can enhance all aspects of the sign language interpreting [...]
A Role for Sign Language Interpreters: Preserving the Linguistic Human Rights of Deaf People
As a coda when I left home to go to college, I never dreamed that I was leaving my mother tongue. It never dawned on me that there wouldn’t be deaf people where I was going and that ASL would be nowhere in sight. Never were my eyes so lonely. Much like an immigrant leaving [...]
Leadership in Sign Language Interpreting: Where are We?
History of Leadership It is difficult to discuss the history of leadership in the field of sign language interpreting without first selecting a starting point for our history as a “field.” Some consider this point the juncture at which the shift from volunteer interpreter to paid interpreter began, and the time at which training standards [...]
StreetLeverage-Live: A Water Cooler Upgrade for Sign Language Interpreters
As most sign language interpreters will readily admit, much of the meaningful dialogue they have on the developments within the field occur at the water coolers of the profession—“small talk” sessions with a colleague. If you are reading this post, you are likely aware, that it is the plight of StreetLeverage to offer interpreters a [...]
New Lamps for Old: Apprenticeship in Sign Language Interpreting
A while ago I taught a workshop in Thailand. My driver, Tuy, took pains during our commute to describe points of interest and cultural nuance. At stoplights, vendors would rush into the queue of cars. One day, Tuy bought a small garland. As he fixed the flowers to his rearview mirror, he explained, “Respect for [...]
Do Sign Language Interpreters Have a Right to a Consumer’s Attention?
At times it can be very difficult to be a sign language interpreter. We put our reputations on the line each and every day we raise our hands to work. We navigate new environments and new subject matter on a regular basis. We suffer vicariously as a result of inhumane acts. Worse, we do all [...]
The Value of Networking for the Developing Sign Language Interpreter
In order for students to be successful sign-language interpreters, prior to graduating it is critical that they develop a relationship with both the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community (DHHC) and current-working professionals within the DHHC. This would include interpreters, educators and DHHC advocates. By fostering these relationships, students will create educational, professional and personal [...]
A Deaf Perspective: Cultural Respect in Sign Language Interpreting
A chip on her shoulder. An angry Deaf person. I will definitely NOT be attending her workshops in the future. The workshop seemed to be a venting session for the Deaf people. These were just some of the evaluation responses to a workshop I presented at a state-level sign language interpreting conference recently. I [...]
Sign Language Interpreters: Recognizing & Analyzing Our Power & Privilege
Are sign language interpreters intrinsically connected to the fight for humanity, as suggested by Brandon Arthur in his post, The Goo Inside a Sign Language Interpreter? What is our role working within a marginalized and oppressed community? What is our connection to solidarity? Do we have a broader sense of responsibility to the community that [...]
Is it Time to Certify Sign Language Interpreter Referral Agencies?
Alarmingly, sign language referral agencies are sending increasing numbers of unqualified signers to interpret for Deaf consumers, causing harm to the communities we serve and to the interpreting field. Friends, consumers and colleagues around the US have been sharing their local horror stories for years. As this is a national issue it cannot solely be [...]
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