American sign language(ASL)

American sign language n. a manual (hand) language with its own syntax and grammar, used in the United States mostly by the deaf or for communication with the deaf, in which gestures made with the hands symbolize words, alphabetical letters, or ideas, permitting rapid communication in the absence of speech.

ACD: Who We Are

Accessible Communication for the Deaf is an innovative and personalized full service Interpreter Referral Agency.
We are dedicated to bridging the gap in communication between the Deaf and the hearing.

Our company, Accessible Communication for the Deaf, provides sign language interpreting services which enable our clients to effectively deliver on their responsibility to make public services accessible to the Deaf  and Hard of Hearing community.

Since 2002 Accessible Communication for the Deaf has been dedicated to providing these services through qualified sign language translators and interpreters throughout Central and South Florida.

We maintain the highest of standards by working exclusively with screened and certified interpreters. We realize that working with Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals may be quite challenging at times, especially for those unfamiliar with the unique language and culture of the Deaf.

The  Interpreter Education Program at ACD covers a variety of subject areas of interest to our clients:  the role of an interpreter, a historical overview of the interpreting profession, public speaking techniques, understanding of and sensitivity to the Deaf community, physical factors involved in  interpreting, and extensive guided practice in interpreting skills.

Our ACD mission is to provide the best  professional and qualified sign language interpretation to meet the needs of companies and institutions that interact with the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community.

These include but are not limited to physicians and hospitals, medical and dental appointments, counseling sessions,  small businesses as well as large corporate staff meetings, job interviews, seminars and trainings; educational, religious, and legal settings and special events such as conventions, theatrical performances and weddings.

ACD would like to be considered your liaison between your company and the Deaf or Hard-of Hearing individuals you serve, allowing your company to be in  full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act which ensures that individuals with disabilities  get equal and reasonable access to all of your services.

In other words, wherever you need us, we’ll be there! Just let us know how we can assist you! We are available 24 hours a day to provide these services.

ACD Tips for Working With Interpreters

 

Meet with the interpreter beforehand, if possible, in order to

• Clarify unique vocabulary, technical terms, acronyms

• Provide interpreter with any written materials ahead of time.

• Arrange seating, lighting and other needs

Reserve seats for the deaf or hard of hearing participants

• Provide a clear view of the speaker and interpreter preferably in the front.

• Deaf or hard of hearing participants still have the right to sit elsewhere.

• Be flexible with seating arrangements.        

Interpreter should be in the consumer's sight line 

• This allows deaf or hard of hearing participants to pick up visual cues and the expressions of the speaker.

• In small group discussions, consider using a circle or semi-circle seating arrangement.

Be aware of lighting

• Provide adequate lighting so the interpreter can be seen.

• If lights will be turned off or dimmed use spotlight or small lamp to direct light toward the interpreter.

Talk directly to the deaf or hard of hearing person

• Maintain eye contact with the deaf or hard of hearing person.

• Avoid directing comments to the interpreter saying:  "Tell him..." or "Ask her..."

• Speak directly to the deaf or hard of hearing person.

Speak naturally 

• Speak at your normal pace and tone. Interpreters will ask you to slow down or repeat if necessary.

• Interpreters listen for concepts and ideas, not just words, to render an accurate interpretation.

Avoid private conversations - everything will be interpreted 

• Whatever the interpreter hears will be interpreted. Interpreters are not editors.

• Ask the deaf or hard of hearing person directly if they are following the conversation.

One person should speak at a time

• An interpreter can only accommodate one speaker at a time.

• If you are facilitating a group discussion, be aware that the interpreter will be several seconds behind. Pause between each speaker to allow the interpreter to complete the interpretation.

• Allow the deaf person an opportunity to be involved in the discussion.

Avoid asking the interpreter for opinions or comments regarding the content of the meeting

• Interpreters follow a code of ethics that requires impartiality and confidentiality with all assignment related information.

• Do not assume the interpreter has prior knowledge of the deaf person.

Provide a short break every hour

• Interpreting is mentally and physically taxing.

• Do not expect the interpreter to interpret during these breaks.

• An assignment over 2 hours requires the use of two interpreters.

• Rest allows the interpreter to perform better and avoid injury.