ASL Interpreter

10 Societal Benefits of ASL Interpreters

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The Profound Benefits of American Sign Language Interpreters to Society

In a world that is becoming increasingly diverse and interconnected, the importance of effective communication cannot be overstated. For the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, communication can present unique challenges due to the differences in auditory perception and linguistic access. American Sign Language (ASL) has emerged as a pivotal mode of communication for this community, and the role of ASL interpreters has become indispensable in bridging the communication gap between Deaf individuals and the hearing world. This essay delves into the multifaceted benefits of American Sign Language interpreters to society, exploring their impact on education, healthcare, employment, and social inclusivity.

1. Facilitating Equal Access to Education: Education is the cornerstone of personal and societal development, ensuring equal opportunities for all. ASL interpreters play a pivotal role in enabling Deaf students to access quality education on par with their hearing peers. In a traditional classroom setting, communication barriers can hinder Deaf students from fully participating and understanding the curriculum. ASL interpreters empower these students by providing real-time interpretation of lectures, discussions, and classroom interactions. This fosters a conducive learning environment where Deaf students can engage, ask questions, and contribute to class discussions, thereby enhancing their overall educational experience. The presence of interpreters in educational settings embodies the principle of inclusivity, allowing Deaf students to realize their academic potential and contribute meaningfully to society in the future. It is helpful to know how educators can work with interpreters to bridge the communication gap.

2. Bridging the Healthcare Divide: Access to healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet Deaf individuals often encounter barriers in this domain due to communication challenges. ASL interpreters serve as crucial intermediaries between healthcare professionals and Deaf patients, ensuring accurate transmission of medical information, diagnosis, and treatment options. In medical settings, misunderstandings can have serious consequences, leading to misdiagnosis, incorrect treatments, and compromised patient safety. The presence of ASL interpreters mitigates these risks, allowing Deaf individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Moreover, interpreters facilitate effective doctor-patient communication, fostering trust and rapport, which are vital for delivering patient-centered care. Thus, ASL interpreters contribute to equitable healthcare access and improved health outcomes for the Deaf community.

3. Enhancing Employment Opportunities: Meaningful participation in the workforce is crucial for individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives. ASL interpreters play a pivotal role in enabling Deaf individuals to access employment opportunities across diverse industries. During job interviews, training sessions, and workplace interactions, interpreters facilitate effective communication between Deaf employees and their colleagues, supervisors, and clients. This not only promotes a harmonious work environment but also empowers Deaf employees to contribute their skills and expertise to their respective fields. ASL interpreters also open doors to career growth by ensuring that Deaf individuals can access professional development opportunities, workshops, and seminars. In this way, interpreters are catalysts for the economic empowerment of the Deaf community, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

4. Fostering Social Inclusion: In a society that thrives on communication, social interactions are integral to personal well-being and a sense of belonging. ASL interpreters serve as bridges between Deaf individuals and their hearing counterparts, facilitating meaningful interactions in various social settings. Whether it’s attending family gatherings, cultural events, community meetings, or entertainment venues, interpreters ensure that Deaf individuals can engage in conversations, share experiences, and partake in the vibrant tapestry of social life. This not only enriches the lives of Deaf individuals but also promotes awareness and understanding among the hearing population about Deaf culture and the importance of accessibility. ASL interpreters thus contribute to breaking down societal barriers, fostering empathy, and nurturing a more inclusive and harmonious community.

5. Promoting Linguistic and Cultural Preservation: Language is not merely a tool for communication; it is also a repository of culture, history, and identity. ASL, a distinct and vibrant language, is an integral part of Deaf culture. ASL interpreters play a significant role in preserving and promoting this linguistic and cultural heritage. By facilitating communication between Deaf individuals and the wider society, interpreters raise awareness about the uniqueness of ASL and the rich cultural traditions of the Deaf community. This contributes to the broader tapestry of American diversity, fostering a society that celebrates and values linguistic and cultural differences.

6. Supporting Legal Access and Due Process: The legal system is complex and intricate, with communication being a cornerstone of ensuring a fair and just process. ASL interpreters serve a critical role in legal settings, ensuring that Deaf individuals have equal access to legal representation and due process. Whether in courtrooms, police stations, or legal consultations, interpreters facilitate effective communication between Deaf individuals and legal professionals. This ensures that Deaf individuals can understand their rights, participate fully in legal proceedings, and make informed decisions. The presence of interpreters upholds the principles of justice, preventing misunderstandings that could lead to unjust outcomes. By enabling Deaf individuals to navigate the legal system effectively, ASL interpreters contribute to a more equitable and fair society.

7. Advocating for Accessibility and Awareness: ASL interpreters not only bridge communication gaps but also advocate for accessibility and awareness on behalf of the Deaf community. They collaborate with various institutions, organizations, and policymakers to ensure that Deaf individuals’ needs are recognized and met. ASL interpreters often educate the wider society about Deaf culture, the importance of linguistic access, and the barriers that Deaf individuals face. This advocacy work extends to promoting the inclusion of sign language interpretation services in public spaces, events, and media. Through their efforts, ASL interpreters drive positive changes in societal attitudes and policies, pushing for a more inclusive and accessible world.

8. Strengthening Family Bonds: Effective communication is the foundation of strong family relationships. ASL interpreters play a significant role in ensuring that Deaf individuals can maintain meaningful connections with their hearing family members. In family gatherings, celebrations, and day-to-day interactions, interpreters facilitate communication, allowing Deaf individuals to engage in heartfelt conversations, share experiences, and feel connected to their loved ones. This strengthens family bonds and prevents isolation that can result from communication barriers. ASL interpreters contribute to nurturing supportive family environments that embrace both Deaf individuals’ unique communication needs and their shared experiences.

9. Inspiring Future Generations: ASL interpreters serve as role models and sources of inspiration for both Deaf and hearing individuals. Deaf youth who encounter ASL interpreters in educational settings, community events, and various platforms see firsthand the possibilities and opportunities that await them. Interpreters demonstrate that being Deaf does not limit one’s potential but rather empowers individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. Hearing individuals who interact with interpreters gain a greater appreciation for linguistic and cultural diversity, fostering a more inclusive mindset that extends beyond interactions with the Deaf community. ASL interpreters play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions, breaking stereotypes, and paving the way for a more open-minded and accepting society.

10. Advancing Technological Innovation: In an era driven by technological advancements, ASL interpreters are also at the forefront of utilizing innovative tools to enhance communication access. Video relay services and remote interpreting platforms enable Deaf individuals to access interpretation services virtually, breaking down geographical barriers. Furthermore, technology-driven educational resources, such as online ASL courses, provide opportunities for hearing individuals to learn sign language and promote cross-cultural understanding. ASL interpreters are not only adapting to technological changes but also contributing to the development of new ways to promote accessibility and communication across diverse platforms.

In conclusion, the benefits of American Sign Language interpreters to society are far-reaching and profound. These professionals are integral to breaking down communication barriers, fostering inclusivity, and empowering the Deaf community across various domains. From education to healthcare, employment to social interactions, legal proceedings to advocacy efforts, ASL interpreters champion the principles of equal access, cultural preservation, and mutual understanding. Through their dedication, skill, and passion, they break down communication barriers, empower Deaf individuals, and foster inclusivity in education, healthcare, employment, and social interactions. As society continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the transformative impact that ASL interpreters have on creating a more diverse, accessible, and harmonious world for all individuals, regardless of their communication preferences or abilities creating a more inclusive society for all.

Feel free to reach out to us regarding your sign language interpreting needs as well as any of our other supported language translators such as Spanish, Chinese, or European languages.

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8 Ways to be a Lousy ASL Interpreter

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Whether it’s working with a team or flying solo, you can ensure that you’ll leave a bad taste in your team or client’s mouth if you follow these simple steps:

1) Show up Late

No one likes to be left waiting, especially if they’re paying you. If you want to start off on the wrong foot with your client and/or team, then go ahead and show up late. You can also forget about apologizing or even attempting to make up a credible excuse for why you left everyone wondering when you’d show.

2) Look Like a Castaway

Another great way to turn people off is by your appearance. Try showing up looking like you just rolled out of bed and see how quickly the Deaf and hearing client begin to question your competence. You’d be surprised how much difference it can make if you are well groomed and wearing the appropriate clothes. If you’re not sure what to wear, you can’t go wrong with a well-fitted business-casual solid (contrasting) shirt and slacks. You don’t have to look like James Bond, but you don’t want your appearance to be distracting to the other parties.

3) Roll Your Eyes

You never know exactly what’s going to be said in many interpreting situations. I’ve heard everything from “I think my uncle is my father” to interpreting for several hours on Christmas eve over a $5 discount on baby wipes. It’s not always easy to hide your own personal reactions in these extreme situations, but you should do your best. If you start rolling your eyes, or huffing and puffing when things start sounding ridiculous (to you), then that’s a surefire way to insult those involved.

4) Get Personal

If you’re running out of ideas for rubbing people the wrong way as a professional linguist, you can always try getting affectionate while you’re working. Feel free to interject your own personal stories, jokes, and opinions as often as you can if you have no interest in continuing your career as an interpreter. I’m not saying this is completely forbidden, but the norm is that you are there as a professional facilitator of communication and are not hanging out with your friends at a bar. Every interpreter will have to judge for themselves where the professional line is that shouldn’t be crossed, but it’s good to always err on the side of caution even if it makes you seem a little colder than you’d naturally be.

5) Criticize your ASL Team Often and Sternly

While a great way to develop professionally as an interpreter is by working with a team, there are ways to share feedback. Jerks will just throw a bunch of criticisms out there at will in front of the client. Even if you’re the best interpreter in Los Angeles, you should first ask if they even want feedback. Secondly, try to give criticism in the gentlest way possible. A good general strategy is to point out a couple things the interpreter did well and then make a few suggestions for how to improve. Avoid being condescending, as you should remember we’re all just trying to do our best. No one chooses to be inferior and they likely will take your suggestions to heart and improve. We should try to help them improve without breaking their spirit.

6) Never Learn

This is actually quite hard to do if you’re actually working often as an interpreter and mixing it up socially with the Deaf. Nevertheless, language changes and if you don’t change with it then you may find yourself confused on your next assignment. Take the coronavirus for example. Few, if anyone knew how to sign it, and now in just a short time, just about everyone who has kept up with the news knows how to express it in ASL.

Sign language workshops or online videos are a good way to beef up your vocabulary and expose yourself to the professional aspects of the language. This should complement your social involvement, since there are many colloquial signs (e.g., “eww” – see the video below) that may not be covered in a professional workshop, but that may come up on an assignment. You’re much more likely to come across new signs while immersing yourself in the Deaf culture.

Watch how to sign ‘eww’ in American Sign Language

7) Agencies Schmagencies

Another great way to screw yourself professionally is to treat interpreting agencies as if they enjoyed being ignored or waiting indefinitely on you. I realize that interpreters get tons of offers for work, and I’m not saying that you should reply to every generic email that is trying to find coverage. However if you say you’re available, you should follow through until the assignment is confirmed. It’s frustrating if an agency gets a yes, but then when they ask for follow up information, it goes unanswered for hours or days. You should keep in mind that the staffer is just trying to ensure coverage for a client, and if they don’t have all the information to see if you’re qualified for the assignment, then they must keep on looking until they have enough to send out a confirmation and get a reply that it was received.

After the assignment, you should send in your invoice within a reasonable time. The client cannot be billed correctly unless the agency sees exactly how much time you spend on the assignment. I realize that interpreters are quite busy and have their own lives, but it definitely shouldn’t take you more than a week to send in an invoice.

The better you treat the agency, the better they’ll treat you. Once you establish yourself as willing, able, timely, and professional, then you’ll move up to the top of their list when they need to find coverage.

8) Be inflexible

In some ways, this should be at the top of the list. If you are set in your ways and think that the world should conform to your expectations, then you’re certain to struggle as an interpreter (especially freelance). Freelance interpreters are exposed to all types of people and situations. You can do your best to set up situations in an ideal way, but more often than not, you’re going to have to compromise. The lighting won’t be perfect, you may have a hearing client who uses inappropriate terms, there wont be enough space on stage, the clients may move around a lot…etc. There are times that you just need to remind yourself to go with the flow and that you’re doing your best. Our flexibility is what gives us our advantage over robots. There’s not much more that the clients can ask for than a capable, pleasant, interpreter that rolls with the punches.

If you’re looking to book an interpreter, then click here or call 855-562-7768. We provide onsite and video ASL interpreters and Spanish translators. We were founded in the Los Angeles (Long Beach) area, however we have a network of professional interpreters serving Orlando, Raleigh, Charlotte, New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Sacramento, and other cities nationwide.