Unable to Get an Interpreter
Wishful thinking! There is so much demand for sign language interpreters these days, that unless you call two weeks in advance, it can be difficult to get an interpreter when you need one. How difficult? After calling TWELVE interpreting referral services, my supervisor was still unable to get ahold of one.
Unable to Participate Without an Interpreter
I had to attend the training session without an interpreter, making do with a combination of one executive's sign language skills, visual cues, and writing back and forth.
Effect of Interpreter Shortage
The shortage of qualified interpreters affects deaf people of all ages, in school and at work. College students struggle to find qualified interpreters for their courses; mainstreamed deaf children often have poor quality interpreters or no interpreter (The New York Times ran an article about how some deaf NYC teens were attending public schools without an interpreter), and deaf people working in the hearing world sometimes have to go without an interpreter when one is needed for key meetings or conferences.
Suggestion from About Visitor
An About visitor wrote:One thing to keep in mind is to give the sign language interpreters the respect they deserve and be on very friendly terms with them. You will find it considerably easier to find interpreters, even at the last minute.
Remember, most interpreters can make their own decision about taking on your request and may decide to take it or not. It helps if they remember you as an excellent client to work with.
There were several instances when I was able to get a sign language interpreter for several last minute meetings because I was a valuable client of theirs and very easy to work with.
