Sign Language Interpreter Case Study

Being an American Sign Language interpreter of color can develop some hesitancy within the field. More specifically with interpreters of African-American descent, many people may be wary of how the interpreting or the Deaf community may react to their presence. However, what some interpreting students of color do not realize is that having a diverse background in this field is what allows for a multitude of settings to be interpreted effectively. Without differing backgrounds, interpreters and deaf clients would not, and could not, be well matched. Sherry I. Smith is an African-American woman that has been a nationally certified freelance sign language interpreter since 2010. Along with her work as an interpreter, and her volunteer ministry work, she writes about her experience being an interpreter of color. She grew up on the Southside of Chicago, where gang violence, drugs, and the fast pace city life was very prevalent. “It taught me to speak up for myself, not to be intimidated, and not to be afraid to travel alone,” (Smith, 2012). She attributes her ability to adapt to interpreting situations to being a part of a minority group and growing up …show more content…
She comments on how what an interpreter does with their past experiences can be extremely helpful to them in the future. She had previous work experience with a certain video relay service that did not go well. About two years after her first time working with the company, she chose to reapply to the company’s program, but not the same center. She had already planned to relocate herself, so she applied and flew to Texas for an interview. She did not want to inform the company that she had worked with them previously in a different are, but knew that they would find out eventually. She chose to take the high road and explained how she had history with the company (Smith,