How to Make Your Event Accessible for Deaf and DeafBlind Attendees
- braithwaite24
- Sep 5
- 3 min read
1. Why Accessibility Matters at Events
Almost everyone has a story of being excluded. No one likes to be left out. We have childhood memories of being picked last for sports, and we've been the third wheel in friend groups where the other two friends were best friends and we were just 'there'. Overlooked, almost invisible.
Accessibility matters because choosing accessibility is saying "I see you, and you are welcome here. Your voice matters".
I once saw someone put it this way: "If you make the building accessible, more people will come". I think this applies to events as well. It builds a rapport with not only the disabled and Deaf community but also with able-bodied attendees.
Emotions aside, it is a legal requirement for a lot of businesses and events. Individuals can and will sue for lack of accommodations under ADA law. The law covers a large range of accommodations, including physical items such as ramps, railings, and braille signs, but it also covers ASL interpreters for the Deaf.
2. ASL Interpreters: What to Know
Working with an ASL interpreter can feel awkward at first. Let's go over some practical tips.
Pacing
Generally speaking the interpreter is trained to be able to keep pace with the speaker, so you shouldn't need to slow down unless specifically asked. In smaller group settings, the interpreter may ask the speaker to wait, or ask for clarification on the specifics to ensure a more accurate interpretation of the message.
Prep
One of the most beneficial things you can do, is offer any prep materials to the interpreter prior to the event. That way, the interpreter can get an idea for what to expect. For smaller meetings, this may be as simple as briefing the interpreter on what the meeting is for.
Preferences
Oftentimes, the interpreter will ask the client their access needs which can include preferring the interpreter to sit or stand.
3. DeafBlind Needs: What to Know
If there are DeafBlind attendees at your event, the best thing to do is ask what their access needs are. Try to contact them before the event and ask what language they use, and if they have any specific needs. The DeafBlind community is extremely diverse. Here's a few examples of what they may ask for (this is not a comprehensive list and individual needs vary):
Close Vision (CV)
Sometimes also referred to as low vision. The client may have specific needs when it comes to placement of the interpreter, including one side, close up, or farther away. Usually an ASL interpreter can satisfy these needs with minimal additional training.
Tactile ASL (TASL)
Some DeafBlind people may use Tactile ASL. The interpreter needs additional training or experience with this. The language used is still ASL, but some tactile features are added for better understanding.
Protactile (PT)
ProTactile is a language that is based on touch (ASL is a visual language). Each person will stay in constant contact with one another. There are ProTactile Interpreters, but there are not many.
CoNavigation (CN)
A CoNavigator is a service for DeafBlind individuals that may include language facilitation, but generally not in-depth interpreting. The CN will walk alongside the DeafBlind client and may provide visual description such as the layout of the room and environmental information.
4. Ready to Book an Interpreter?
Whether you are a church, nonprofit fundraiser, or hosting a workshop in Northern Virginia, RKA Signs may be able to help locate an interpreter for your needs! Fill out the contact form to get started.
Further Reading:
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