Workshop

Interpreters often encounter advocacy issues. They receive questions from clients regarding discrimination and encounter situations they question as discriminatory. Interpreters should be familiar with laws regarding communication access, but are not expected to be experts. There are resources available in Texas to assist with more in depth advocacy. Where should the interpreter start? Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the Deafness Resource Specialist projects which focus on empowerment and self-advocacy to assist individuals, agencies, businesses, and other entities understand rights and responsibilities for communication access. An examination of relevant federal and state mandates regarding communication access, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, will help interpreters recognize discrimination in order to make decisions when faced with advocacy situations. Interpreters will feel confident recognizing situations needing advocacy and be equipped with resources promoting deaf clients’ empowerment and self-advocacy.