Communication Accessibility

I have interpreted all of my life for my parents and those who do not know ASL. Interpreting is not only for the Deaf people it is for the hearing people who do not know ASL -it goes both ways.

Airlines, hospitals, medical clinics, gov't agencies, stores, restaurants etc.. All assume everyone is hearing and speaking in their approach to providing services.

Change of mindset, some people require other forms of communication so provide all avenues: auditory and visual and tactile (I cannot elaborate on tactile as I am not well informed in this area)

ex. change rules of phone calls only for making doctor appointments to allowing texts and emails or online chat systems etc

-do not just call out/yell names in the waiting area- use a sign- digital or write it on a whiteboard or text

-have paper and pen or whiteboard handy at ALL TIMES in all environments

-do not only provide announcements in PA system- provide same info in written form- digital display or text

-do not offer a sign that says "sign language" avail when you only have a staff who learned their ABCs and believe fingerspelling important info like COVID vaccination info is appropriate and equal information access

-when someone provides a person with a written note or text on phone, respond back utilizing same approach do not start talking loudly or over enunciate your speech. Follow the person's lead.

-change audio alerting devices to include vibration and or lights for emergency or other relevant situations

-learn about how to hire an ASL interpreter and book one :)