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Conversing in sign language is using your whole body to make a visually clear message. As an interpreter it is my job to provide access between Deaf and hearing. I am a bridge between the two conveying all of the emotion, culturally appropriate information, context, to the goal of understanding. Interpreting and I have been journeying for 15 years now. What a fabulous ride!

 

As a sign language interpreter I find myself providing communication access in many different parts of people's lives. I am honored to be chosen to bridge communication between the cultures. One place that I am privileged to provide this access is for music. When I am interpreting music, I am at home. Performance interpreting is a passion of mine. I grew up on stage singing and performing. It was a place where I could be whomever I wanted to be and feel free. The transition into performance interpreting was natural. While interpreting a concert I get to provide that escape in ASL. When I see the Deaf consumers signing along and really getting into the music I know I have succeeded. There is pride in a job well done.

 

I would not be an interpreter without the support of the Deaf community. It is their language that I use to communicate with the hearing world. It is of utmost importance to respect and learn from those whose language we borrow. We couldn’t be here without them. Interpreters need to continuously learn. All languages are alive. We need to be able to change as they do.

 

 I've heard it said, “The hearing can learn to sign. The Deaf can not learn to hear”. My job is to make sure the bridge is solid and communication is clear.