I Fired My ASL Interpreter For the First Time

For the first time ever, I fired my ASL interpreter, requesting a new one and then reporting her to RID. ASL interpreters have a code of ethics that they must follow, and when they act inappropriately, it's only appropriate that higher ups are made aware. She still has her job. She's just no longer assigned to anything that I need an interpreter for. The most she'll probably have to deal with is a talking to and more training.
I Fired My ASL Interpreter For the First Time
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[@rikkipoynter]

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[@SugarRhi]

Medical Interpret here (English/Spanish): it is VERY common for patients to have some level of bilingual ability and I see folks who want to speak directly to their provider in English and then want me to interpret more complex or technical stuff. At the beginning of an appointment, if I notice that someone is bilingual, I always make a point to say “communicate however feels best for you, and I am here to fill in any gaps you may want or need!” The behavior that you are describing is incredibly unprofessional and maybe that interpreter needs to find a job using her skills in a different setting that with less ambiguity if she can’t handle the nuances of medical care. I’m sorry this happened to you and good on you for being a self-advocate in the situation!

[@Wee_Catalyst]

Exactly, shes not cut out for this line of work

[@MAlanThomasII]

She at least needs retraining. If she fails to improve after that, yeah, she needs to switch fields. Maybe she could get a job where occasional ASL fluency might come in handy but it's not her primary job, so she stays task-focused in interactions and only uses her language skill as a tool towards that task.

[@Vennele]

You're so right about this. I worked as interpreter (same languages) for a couple months and the first thing they told us during training was... "No personal opinions, no biases, no sugarcoating, you just do your job, you do the interpretation, that's it". Between those lines.

[@kaitlyn__L]

It's not exactly the same, but I'm reminded of how I've had experience with medical settings for wheelchairs where they assume everyone is paralysed. So when I briefly stand to adjust my coat, then go "ooh my back" before getting back in the chair, they're like "do you actually need that?? What's going on?" and then I feel compelled to explain I've got a joint laxity issue, not paralysis. Those kinds of assumptions by abled people who work in the field of your disability always suck.

[@gardeniagirl1374]

The comment, "Do you really need that?" is rude and insensitive. Ppl request an interpreter because they need one, not for any other reason. I think sometimes interpreters are surprised by the level of speech fluency that Deaf use. It may come as a surprise to interpreters that Deaf can use their voice to communicate. Maybe they just expect Deaf to be mute, too.

[@saracucksee9683]

The fun "no, I can put the chair in my car, but sometimes I need it so that I don't pass out while running errands" deal is similar. I'm lucky enough that I don't need my chair or my walker very often, but when I do, I do NOT have the physical or mental energy to deal with the nonsense some people say. I do my best, as someone working in the medical field, to be as accommodating as I can, and to do what I'm able to ensure the patient understands what's happening. It's important to explain what's happening/what you need to do, ask what their abilities are (specifically related to the task at hand,) and what assistance, if any, do they need. None of us instantly know someone else's abilities just by looking at someone. Visible indicators of disability don't tell us everything, and there's a while host of invisible disabilities people need to be more aware of. As a medical worker, I'm sorry for any of the times someone discounted your disability or your need for mobility aids. That's not ok. I firmly believe society as a whole has a LONG way to go in terms of navigating with disabilities and with disabled people. As well as just having an open mind, and being able to ask questions relevant to what's going on, without prying into personal business.

[@Faesharlyn]

*floppy wave Hello fellow zebra!

[@pinguthegreek]

Been there heard that. Fun times. Not.

[@patibulary]

it’s always the situations where it’s completely irrelevant to what’s going on too, like my psychiatrist always asks me why i use the wheelchair and if i can mobilise at all every time like it’s the first time he’s met me and im just like “sir….I’m here to discuss my quetiapine perscription”

[@Hannah-yf2yr]

I'm not deaf, but I am disabled and I once had to fire a carer that I really liked and who fit so well in my life all because her boss was on a power trip and I just couldn't continue to work with them. The boss arrived unanounced at my house and proceded to berate me at length because my house wasn't tidy enough (like yeah, cleaning was one of the primary tasks my carer helped with, of course there would be cleaning to do at the start of her shift!) This woman clearly had some problem with disabled people & from the moment she walked in the door she was yelling and before long I was in tears. My carer said quietly to me "yeah, she's been like this with everyone we've visited today" so I promptly told them I would no longer require their services & to get out of my house. I still dont understand why someone who thought so poorly of disabled people would ever apply to work at a carers agency but I'm very glad I never have to see her again even though I do miss my ex carer.

[@alyssachey8417]

Ugh had to get rid of an intervenor for a similar issue. Boss was on a power trip, came to my house, berated me for my place not being perfectly clean. Ended up firing both because the intervenor was belittling me after this and was making rude comments about how I needed to “get a real job “ instead of trying to run my own business. Thankfully my current intervenor and her boss are both very supportive of me and my business.

[@jadebolt4416]

I'm not American but English. A lot of the time people like this go into that career with the objective of proving disabled people are over exaggerating or faking their disabilities and if they put in more effort or 'just try harder' and 'aren't coddled' so much they would be functional adults. some people just think those with disabilities especially invisible disabilities are just lazy and spoiled acting like children rather than there is something preventing them from doing so. I lost my carer who i loved working with, because her new boss decided the tasks she was doing with me were not part of her job description. if i need help with cleaning, I should hire a maid. I need help with shopping- that is on me to figure out. need a ride to the doctors or hospital- get an uber/taxi. her boss also accused me of being drunk rather than disabled- because I have slurred speech and lousy balance. Dyspraxic and paralysed in one leg- not the best combo. stroke like migraines don't help either. she saw ginger beer bottle in my fridge, didn't look at the label but decided i'm an alcoholic .

[@claudeyaz]

​@@jadebolt4416 Did you report up the chain, that stuff can be put into your record and cause you problems with your disability down the road

[@michaellmikeyymike]

Always advocate for yourself. ASL is your preferred method of communication, the interpreter doesn’t need to know anything else.

[@marklee81]

Wild. How does someone do that job without understanding deaf people can't hear? Glad you reported her.

[@Roadent1241]

You would be surprised how many people think like that. I've been through doctors, teachers...! Other kids I can understand but adults?

[@realglutenfree]

@@Roadent1241 Teachers I can still kinda understand, but an interpreter? Has no one ever told her, not even her clients, that deaf people can sometimes talk but not hear? I dont get it.

[@Roadent1241]

@@realglutenfree Wouldn't surprise me that she didn't care enough to know.

[@oh.sorry.dont.mind.meeeee]

I don't understand... that sounds like someone not not knowing that water is wet, or the sky is blue, or gravity exists. huh???

[@Alice_Sweicrowe]

Water isn't wet, it makes things wet.​@@oh.sorry.dont.mind.meeeee

[@mary-jeanfickes2486]

I'm a Spanish/English interpreter. I have worked in many situations where the patient spoke fairly good English and the health care provider spoke some Spanish. Sometimes I never interpreted anything but I was there to jump in any time I was needed or to help clarify misunderstandings. I don't know the system where you are but can always let it be known if you are dissatisfied with an interpreter's work. Often you can request a specific interpreter but some insurance companies won't allow that as they don't want the interpreter to get too chummy with the patient/client and start advocating for them

[@popenieafantome9527]

I always feels bad for the interpreter when i take my mother to her appointments. I do ask for it since their can be plenty of medical jargon i can’t translate myself, but i often do end up taking to the dr in english but have interpreter translate what is said to my mother. I’d talk less if i could, but memory issues can make my mother’s side of the story unreliable and i manage her medications for her.

[@mary-jeanfickes2486]

@popenieafantome9527 I have often interpreted for the patient when their adult child is talking with the doc. I know the child needs to do that but it's important to make sure the patient doesn't feel left out and knows what's being said in case they want to ask a question or add info. An interpreter's job is just to convey information and increase clarity. That can look different in every situation

[@SugarRhi]

@@mary-jeanfickes2486 Hi fellow Spanish/English Medical Interpreter! Same here! Very well said and explained, I just commented the same thing!!

[@SugarRhi]

@@popenieafantome9527 I wholeheartedly agree with the original commenter here…do not feel bad! What you are describing is part of our job and what we are trained to do. It sounds like you are a great advocate for your mom, which is wonderful.

[@fordhouse8b]

I am not deaf, and don’t know how this popped up in on my KZbin home page, but I like seeing videos about things that are outside my experiences.

[@realglutenfree]

Same, it just got randomly recommended to me ^^

[@Gloria_Williams]

@@realglutenfree Me too! I'm so glad it did because she's immediately likeable and oddly relatable, even for us hearing folks! I recently discovered that my mother was deaf (she died when I was 3) and watching one of Rikki's videos for the first time has brought up so many questions that I would LOVE to ask her, but have no idea if they are appropriate or stupid and offensive. Plus, I never check my email anymore, so emailing her probably wouldn't work. Sorry, I'm rambling! All I'm saying is that this girl seems amazing and sweet! I look forward to watching more of her videos!

[@HonkLoser]

As am I.

[@jadasakurawatches]

You should give Rikki a sub! Her videos are super interesting

[@fordhouse8b]

@@jadasakurawatches The problem with that is that I already subscribe to over a thousand channels on KZbin, and probably spend way to much time here already. I wish there was a semi-subscribe option, where you could pick a percentage of a channels videos to be displayed in your subscription cue. For example, if you could opt for a 5% subscription, and only every twentieth video is displayed, or a 20% option, where every fifth video popped up. This way you would be reminded of a channels existence regularly, without having hundreds of videos in your subscription feed every day.

[@zoegrimes2070]

As an interpreter myself, I couldn’t imagine ever asking a deaf consumer this.. I’m so sorry that happened to you.

[@gerriebell2128]

I’m a retired certified interpreter (ironically also now hard of hearing). I was taught that an interpreter should sign in whichever mode the deaf person wants, and do the job however the deaf person wants (such as the deaf person verbally speaking for him/herself but wanting the receptive part sign- interpreted, which is not rare). An interpreter has NO right giving an opinion about how the deaf person signs or doesn’t sign. I’ve interpreted by signing ASL, English, and everything in between, even mouthing the words with the signing, if the deaf person asks for that. It is actually breaking ethics to make any kind of “judgement call” about how or how much a deaf client signs. An interpreter’s function is to do whatever it takes for the deaf and hearing people in the situation to have good communication. Sometimes it is helpful for the interpreter to know ahead of time (by asking, or by the client telling them), that the deaf person wants to speak but wants everything the hearing people say, to be signed.The interpreter is not a “participant”, per se. And ethics includes confidentiality, so if that interpreter made any kind of comment to others about your signing or your particular needs or her assignment,she should be reported.

[@Vennele]

That's right!

[@wickedtruth84]

This is why I only use my own preferred interpreters. Too many old school interpreters who thinks Deaf people cannot speak. You can be Deaf and still talk; most of our generations and younger can talk and still be proud to be Deaf.

[@jaimerandhawa4391]

Nah she deseves to loose her job all together. That was really rude of her and unprofessional for her to be assume. I myself request Interpter for really important medical stuff and I talk but then I look at Interpter for what doctors and medical professionals say. Then I know I have all infomation! Its not up to interpter if they are needed or not! I sign when I want to I'm fluent I NZSL and fluent in English.…. I think some people box what Deaf are “supposed to be” rather than realizing some of us who did grow up in mainstream had no access to Sign language education! Ive never expreenced bad interpters but I I. General can understand most interpters.… but gosh you did the right thing!!!!

[@claudeyaz]

It reminds me of that famous reddit story, when the teacher called in a student's parents, because the student said they were born in Korea, and the teacher called her a liar, because she was white,. The girl was an army brat, she was born in Korea, but you can be born in Korea, and not be Korean... In the reddit story the mother leaves the room and the principle is just flabbergasted that the teacher didn't know Americans could be born abroad. It feels like this interpreter couldn't understand how a deaf person could speak,

[@debrablockkuramitsu6283]

I am a retired Speech-Language Pathologist for the Deaf, hard of hearing, and cochlear implants. I admire you telling your story in a very honest, judicious manner. Yes, especially when it comes to a medical appointment or any communication essential to your health, finances, or any MAJOR information affecting your well-being and/ or future. It best to contact your local Hearing Society or organization in your area and request a professional licensed interpreter. Many people have different levels of signing. I am a signer. However, I do not have the skills that will do your justice imperative to your well-being. You can also request your audiologist to ask for a licensed interpreter she likes . Your total communication skills are excellent! Be proud. Never be afraid to advocate for yourself or assume guilt for expecting excellent health care. We are part of a team, and you deserve the best!

[@MonAhgasInsomniAroELF]

oh my goodness, i'm so sorry you had that experience! as someone who was an ASL interpreter for almost a decade, that woman was extremely unprofessional and unethical. some interpreters can get weird about their own self importance. you definitely did the right thing! you can always tell the company/doctor's office who hired the interpreter for you that you don't want that specific interpreter back, and they'll let the agency they hired her from know not to send her again for you. simple as that (and the interpreter will never know you requested not to have them back, so no need to worry about that if you're the anxious type)! honestly i don't even understand what her problem was. you're a very clear signer, easy to understand! and on top of that you voice for yourself! that's a dream come true for most interpreters, since voicing is generally the harder part of interpreting. you're an ideal client in my opinion! personally i've interpreted for all kinds of deaf people, ones who speak, ones who don't, ones with hearing aids or cochlear implants who can talk and/or hear on all different levels. every individual has different needs and it's an interpreter's job to respect that and adapt to each client as needed, we're meant to be neutral parties that aid in communication, nothing more nothing less. i hope you don't have to deal with any more interpreters like that again in your life, but the sad thing about life is that we'll always encounter people who are rude and say and do things they shouldn't, even among "professionals." but kudos to you for advocating for yourself, never be afraid to do that!

[@silent_advocate]

Thank you for sharing this story. I have been in the Deaf community for a long time and I am training to be an interpreter now. It's good to remember there are all types of deaf people, not only people who can sign fluently. I actually have the opposite problem right now where I have a paralyzed vocal chord so sometimes I need people to speak for me. (suddenly happened 4 months ago, hopefully it can get better before I am done interpreter training) Most people are understanding or think I am deaf (which I don't mind) but sometimes it can get difficult or I just want to do what I need to do and I don't want to explain about my voice.

[@Nocticola]

I love hearing your kitty in the background. Sorry this happened to you. Good for you for firing and reporting her.

[@rikkipoynter]

Hahaha, Simon just has to chime in.

[@VioletEmerald]

​@@rikkipoynter Yes i was noticing the cat seemed really loud near the beginning of the video

[@Nyx_ofthenight]

That's so weird. I'm still a student in my ITP, but I thought it was pretty common knowledge in interpreting that many Deaf/HH people use multimodal or combinations of communication methods. Some don't obviously, but it's certainly not unheard of.

[@toscatattertail9813]

it is more common now, 30+ years ago it was rare for even a HOH person to speak for themselves

[@FlowerChild65]

Good for you for firing her and for reporting it. Deafness is a spectrum and anyone who works with deaf people should know that. I am not deaf, but I am disabled and use a wheelchair. This would be like asking if or why I need my wheelchair. Not cool. We don't ask for access needs we don't have. It's so terribly hard to get basic accessibility as it is. It's wild to me that someone who works with deaf people and in a medical office would not know that some deaf people speak. Switching between speech and ASL is no different than switching between English and another language.

[@banerunner]

I have to deal with this all the time, being mainstreamed. in high school was 27% now it 65% yep, my mouth works. It's the ears that don't

[@mar25947]

That interpreter needs to find a different profession. Her actions were disrespectful. Glad you had a great friend to support and encourage you to advocate for yourself! ❤

[@BanthaWorship]

I also use my voice as a deaf person and it astounds every single person I encounter. Why? I can only assume they've gotten some weird ideas about what deafness is or what it looks like from TV. Being mainstreamed means I'm also really good at lip reading, but even Really Good Lipreading is still only somewhat accurate. So like, an interpreter helps even if just to reinforce what's been said to me! To make sure I've "guessed" correctly. If I am in the ideal environment, in the ideal circumstances, with a single well known person my lipreading can seem miraculous. In literally any other scenario with a stranger it's a hot mess. One time I was at a restaurant and the server asked what sort of meat I'd like in my food, but I thought they said beans... for some reason? So I just kept saying, "Black beans. :)" They were so confused. Imagine. Server: So what sort of meat can I get for you today? Me: Black beans. Server: Alright. I can get those for you on the side but what kind of meat can I get for you? Me: I'd like black beans, please. Server: ... You want beans instead of meat? Me: Black... beans? My friend: omg, she want chicken! Server: ??? Me: ??? I did in fact want chicken, my friend knows me well, but I had no idea what was going on and everyone in the situation was getting hangry. LOL. Now-a-days I cold open with, "Hi, I'm deaf!" just to get that out of the way.

[@whitecrow1949]

I have had good fortune with interpreters. Yes, I preferred some over others, but in general, those from good training programs or CODAs were very aware of the variety of our experiences. The most problematic experience was in my attendance at a Quaker gathering. The location was not near any urban centers. At first, a local woman who somehow figured out to communicate with her Deaf neighbors down the road came. She was a sweetheart, but she had only gone as far as third grade. She knew the manual alphabet, but she couldn't spell many words. I was busy mentally interpreting what I think were the intended words. Good training and education are vital for interpreting. 😮 .. 😊

[@rikkipoynter]

Yeah, I've never had such an experience with an interpreter until this one. A few weren't my favorite, sure, but I never thought, "Wow, I really don't want to have this person at my appointments ever again."

[@DessicatedInterrobang]

Abelism of that degree in a professional who is supposed to be providing a service for disabled person is appalling. Thank you for sharing your story and maintaining healthy boundaries. ❤ She should absolutely lose her job, or at least he prevented from working in situations where she will be in private or medically-protected settings.

[@XxcupcakexkittenxX]

I completely understand voicing at medical appointments. My speaking voice is barely audible, but when it comes to any medical appointments I try to speak. I don't sign a lot of medical terms so I don't want to sign wrong and be given the wrong diagnosis. This may be an unpopular opinion, but I think audiologist office should have a few people that sign. I have literally gone to an audiologist that didn't seem to understand I couldn't hear them and got upset that I didn't hear my name 🤦🏾

[@Dayholly86]

Maybe in a large city or hospital system, but ASL interpreter combined with another job would be way too expensive!

[@Dayholly86]

Hang in there! An audiologist who got frustrated you didn't hear something? Time for a new audiologist cuz that one is burnt out.

[@comradewindowsill4253]

bruh that'd be like a plumber showing up mad that your toilet is clogged

[@dobbsj.aslservices7387]

I have had it happen before. The person wanted a interpreter with experience using Rochestor method and at the time I told the agency not to send me back bc my skill set didn't fit. Lo and behold they did again and I apologized to the Client and we rescheduled her presentation. I wasn't aware that I was returning to the agency to work with the same Client. Needless to say I no longer work with that agency

[@toscatattertail9813]

For those that don't know... Rochester Method is literally finger-spelling everything while speaking. There are no actual ASL signs involved.

[@Dayholly86]

​@toscatattertail9813 that sounds painful, slow, and carpal tunnel-inducing. Thank you for letting me skip Google!

[@DavidLindes]

Well, I'm not Deaf, so I've never had an interpreter, let alone needed to fire one, but I have fired a therapist or two, for... somewhat-similar (though less egregious) reasons. People that just weren't a fit for one reason or another. Anyway, a totally valid thing to do. Kudos for doing it, and I hope whomever you get next will be much better for you!

[@leeannhibbard2749]

I see this same thing in some meetings I conduct as a teacher. We have parents that natively know one language, but are still learning another. For example, Spanish and now English. They will sometimes respond in English (when they feel comfortable) but other times will respond to the interpreter in Spanish. I never really thought about it as a problem.

[@spiderfart420]

I wish there was a sign interpreter for the cat in the background, they want to be heard! 😂 Aside from that, Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@harveycreekin]

Came here to make this comment! Meow 😻 P.s. epic username bro! 🤘

[@rikkipoynter]

hahaha Simon says hellooooo

[@tc1897]

I absolutely have DNSed an interpreter several times. Good for you. Unprofessional terps need to be called out.

[@LKTheHorrorNerd]

I’ve been to mainstream schools and Deaf schools both. It still sucks for me to this day to deal with crappy and bad interpreters. Thankfully, since moving to Vermont, I’ve had little to no issues with getting much better interpreters.

[@kazunamori943]

Thank you for your bravery. Most people would not report this. This helps to make the system better.

[@meeko4726]

Wow that is crazy this person should not be allowed to work with anyone. I’m not death but I am blind so I can understand that not everyone is exactly the same we all are different. Thank you for sharing your experience! I’m sure you have helped others who have experienced similar situations.

[@christinahaslage2704]

My first time attempting to fire an interpreter was when I was in high school with my parents supporting me. They fought against it along with their local state chapter. Ever since then, I have no trust in that state chapter nor the organization as a whole (RID) because a lot of things tend to get swept under the rug when it comes to interpreters like who you and I have encountered. Career interpreters have no business being in the field when they start judging deaf clients on their abilities (or lack of). My second time firing an interpreter was because they could not accurately convey information that was way above them in my studies. That really affected my grades so I decided to be proactive and requested another interpreter. So glad I did because my grades improved after getting an interpreter that had a Ph.D. and knew the information being presented. Interpreters who are simply content with having an AA or BA degrees - they need to get kicked in the butt to continue their studies because Deaf clients are not going to be satisfied with their quality of work if they expect the Deaf clients to have subpar understanding. We are out there and we demand the best access there can be. YOU GO RIKKI.

[@kellyclark7517]

I can’t even imagine, going to an appointment with any client, deaf, blind, physically, unable and to never have introduced myself??? That is part of your job honey? Ugh

[@rikkipoynter]

She might've introduced herself, I'm just really garbage at fingerspelling and reading/understanding it haha and it's the worst with names

[@kellyclark7517]

@ oh, I would’ve been right on that introducing myself but that’s just me. The grates on my nerves, because I don’t know if you’ve ever seen the movie “patch Adams”? But Robin Williams is in med school, and they have a client in the hallway on a gurney w like 15 students around him, and the professor is going over all of his ailments, and just carrying on about a lot of nothing…… and Robin Williams broke the silence, and simply asked”what is the patients name”? So I guess it just grades on my nerves more than the average bear. Anyway, if you have not seen that movie, I strongly suggest it!

[@alexysautumnelf]

I fired an interpreter once. I had a stress test and he spent 6 hours misgendering me and at one point told me SO "Im just gonna voice this. You can interpret for (me)." I told him my correct pronouns repeatedly. My SO told him my pronouns and constsntly corrected his blatant misuse of them. And then he decided he wanted to be some sort of activist for me and talk to a clinic manager on my behalf, and I was like "no." He was assigned to me for a PT appointment another day and I pulled my therapist aside and voiced "I can't work with him. He makes me uncomfortable. You need to release him." And that was that. I told my insurance and the agency that sent him to never match with me again and luckily, I haven't seen him since.

[@rikkipoynter]

Oh yikes I'm so sorry

[@toscatattertail9813]

Technically you had the right to dismiss him the after the second or third time you misgendered, at that point it was obvious he was not a good match.

[@Dayholly86]

I had no idea there were pronouns in ASL. I've never learned because I don't see well enough to use it. Thank you for sharing your story. Also, isn't it a rule that the interpreter is literally your stand-in for conversations? Why would an interpreter ever use a pronoun other than I/me/myself when referring to you? I'm trying to be as respectful as I can. Those are honest questions.

[@alexysautumnelf]

​@Dayholly86 There are pronouns in ASL the same as there are in English. Even in the video you see Rikki point to represent the interpreter (She) and point to herself (Me) which are ASL pronouns. But you are correct. The way I always explain if is that I borrow the ears and voice of another person when I use an interpreter. Their job is simply to facilitate communication. They sign whatever the hearing person says and they voice whatever I sign. That is the extent of their job. Interpreters will often tell hearing people to NOT say things like "Tell her/him/them..." but to speak directly to the client. So, for the interpreter themselves to translate it and rephrase what I said into "She said...." was completely unprofessional. An interpreter should only interpret first person pronouns (I/Me/Myself) when speaking for the Deaf client because the client would typically refer to themselves in the first person.. I hope this answers your questions. Thank you for asking them!

[@juliebrusca7434]

I have an overreaching interpreter story. (Not ASL, English/Spanish, but bound by same obligations and limitations.) I was representing a client in a deposition. I speak Spanish but can't interpret myself because it would conflict with my responsibility to advise her. The interpreter started arguing with my client in Spanish over her choice of slang versus proper Spanish. Oh, hell no! The interpreter's job was to translate exactly what was spoken, not correct my client's vocabulary. I interrupted and explained to opposing counsel what was happening. The interpreter got very defensive, proclaiming his education, etc. I wasn't in a position to fire him as I hadn't hired him. But that unprofessional and intimidating shit was not happening while I was there.

[@katarinakayaagbaba8398]

Wow, that’s such an amazing video! My experience is pretty different. In my small city, we only have three interpreters. One of them is the best, but she’s not always available. So, I had to request another one, but it didn’t go well. This person didn’t even understand me. I was frustrated, but honestly, I’m kind of satisfied with their expressions-it’s better than their receptive skills, you know? Hehe

[@vkng_drag0n982]

No worries about your signing. The important thing is that you can communicate and express yourself.

[@ellis7796]

Wild of the terp to doubt your Deafness at an AUDIOLOGY appt of all places!! I also prefer to voice for myself and I've had a few terps comment on it (usually CODAs bc they can be Deaf Blunt, lol), but out of kindness or curiosity rather than judgement, and it's never impacted their ability to do their job well. And why would the terp tell you not to sign to her?? Doesn't she know there are HoH interpreters too? One of my favorite terps is 1/4 deaf!

[@gaerekxenos]

This is one of those times I am thankful for not particularily legally distributed niche media (comics) that were translated from other countries, since some of the ones I have read have covered disabilities and some of the intricacies. Such as people who are hard of hearing and may be classifies as deaf who can still hear a bit but still need interpreters. It is a bit... unfortunate... that people go in to support services without knowing the full extent of the people they will be serving and only recognize very specific smaller groups within the broader group as the ones they would be serving Thank you for spreading awareness of your particular circumstances within your community so others outside of it can be a bit more aware

[@Benovip]

I am going to be honest, I may not be deaf or hard of hearing, so I don't know the requirements of an interpreter, but I don't think that woman should be working as an interpreter at all - especially not when your friend says she does these things a lot. To me a lot of it just sounds very unethical, like she voicing her opinion, which should never be happening with any kind of interpretation at all, and also the fact that she seems to live in the belief that, if someone is deaf, that means they're also mute.

[@toscatattertail9813]

Some well established interpreters get away with a lot of marginally acceptable behaviors, because they do have excellent skills.

[@NovasYouTubeName]

Thanks for sharing and good for you for standing up for your rights ❤

[@antoniamueller135]

When I have appt. Interpreter show up and interpreter told me turn off my voice. Why interpreter force me not use my voice? I did report and report did not help me out even not solve. I stop not use interpreter for 1 year. My hubby loves hear my voice. God said not right what interpreter said to deaf turn off their voice.

[@Dayholly86]

I'm not deaf, but I would have applauded if your next sentence was, "I slapped them in the face!" That's the same as handcuffing a deaf person behind their back. Also, literally telling an adult stranger to shut up.

[@azazellon]

Yes that is entirely rude and not called for, at all. I'm sorry they were rude :(

[@pggysu]

You did the right thing. Hopefully a less confident person won't be burdened with this interpreter. Isn't it crazy that she feels it her place to judge just how you should behave and present with your hearing loss!?

[@wanderingofokami]

I've only seen 1 interpreter in my life and that was back in 2012 when I was in a safety class over at Amazon Fulfillment Centre. I only knew very very little signs. There were two deaf people thus there was an interpreter signing to them. It was pretty loud in there and I missed a lot of words that was said, I couldn't help but looked over at the interpreter to get an idea what was said. It helped some but I was very anxious being there. (btw, I only did few days of work before I got injured from almost being mauled by pack of dogs one night. Had to quit working 😞 ) I have been asked many times if I need an interpreter when I'm at the hospital because they know I'm moderate deaf. I always told them that I wish I could but I don't know ASL that well. I live in middle of nowhere thus hardly any opportunities to sign better. Anyhow, I'm glad you fired and reported that particular interpreter. She sounded like she's not taking her job too seriously. I hope to know ASL more so I can use it as my preferred communication. Voicing to me is so overrated. And I really need to do a new hearing test and readjust my hearing aids -__-

[@kellyriddell5014]

Good for you for speaking up for yourself. That's always hard to do. That woman was RUDE!

[@fioregiallo]

3:12 it IS weird because wtf does knowing English as a first language have anything to do with your hearing?? Like _should_ she still have this job? Because I am skeptical about her understanding of what it is she's supposed to do, even just a few minutes further into the video. 🤯

[@PKLuver944]

Being born hearing or born to hearing parents doesnt exist according to the interpreter 😂

[@paintergirl06]

Ah that's hard! I remember the many interpreters throughout my college classes. Most were very nice no problems. So many personalities!

[@deborahwager5883]

Wow, that's awful! I also speak for myself in medical appointments, and I've never had an interpreter have any trouble with that. I did once fire an interpreter who I had a lot of trouble understanding. It felt a little weird, but after that I only saw them occasionally at public events, so it was really nice!

[@karenescourse1604]

About 8 years ago, I work at the bank in downtown Toronto. We had big meeting with me, other Deaf staff and also CODA friend and there had an ASL interpreter which is a woman. My manager announced with the an ASL interpreter. We caught her with not professional ASL which she signed with middle fingers! Hearing people in my meeting saw and knew what the middle fingers. That was so embarrassed us! End of meeting, ASL interpreter left, Deaf staff and I talked with my manager with CODA friend who can ASL. My manager shocked and removed ASL interpreter name that we don't need her anymore of professional. ASL interpreter have NO ASL CERTIFICATE which she told me.

[@kellyclark7517]

What a great video. Thank you so much for sharing it! I can’t wait to watch it again because I know some sign language and recently have been working at the Florida school for the deaf and blind. But unfortunately, currently, that is not my situation and it is such a great school and I really enjoyed going to signclass. And of course the students! Even though they intimidate the heck out of me😂 And my Scion teacher is totally down, so going to Sunglass Cove times of week was really awesome and a totally different experience than anything I’ve ever experienced !

[@kellyclark7517]

Wow, sorry about using the microphone and not proofreading! And perhaps drinking some😂

[@Exiled.New.Yorker]

She should be fired. Its not her job to make judgements, its her job to interpret when/if you need it, and im sure there are plenty of people who can do that without being a tool. Imagine a UN interpreter saying that to a delagate. Translation is here only job.

[@dhrousseau]

as an interpreter, it's so strange to me that she was surprised... tons of Deaf people voice for themselves and only want the interpreter to sign. and i feel like it's a great thing when people get access to ASL later in life. and it's a part of their journey of developing a Deaf identity, so we should be respectful of that and not discourage people who are learning to sign. if you have a relationship with any local interpreting agencies in your area, you can update them with your preferences too. i know the local agencies where i live will maintain preferred lists and "no" lists for Deaf people and interpreters so that while they're coordinating assignments, they can avoid putting people with someone they don't want to work with.

[@harveyabel1500]

Matter of fact, interpreters can fire clients (I can think of one client that should be fired!).

[@rikkipoynter]

This is also true!

[@toscatattertail9813]

Retired Interpreter... we also have the right to tell the referral agency we work with that we will not accept assignments with certain individuals (why take the job when the Deaf client is going to refuse you and the Doctor's time is wasted by needing to re-schedule).

[@oz_jones]

Thats WILD. Glad you reported her

[@saundrayork767]

Good that you fired her! Her job is to make certain that you know and understand everything our doctor says to you. Clearly she requires additional training & the training should begin with the 5 senses and how the are not connected.

[@Dayholly86]

Even further: basics of being nice to people.

[@toscatattertail9813]

I am a Retired Interpreter in Omaha, that Behavior was not normal, or acceptable, it is actually very inappropriate, like she is taking jobs only to get credit for the 2 hour minimum and leave (when an interpreter takes an assignment they charge a 2 hour minimum to make sure they get paid for their time as they cannot schedule another job in the time slot that was lost). In Omaha you have the right to tell any and all medical offices you do not want to use a specific interpreter if they are not a good match for you. You need to report her to NERID, not sure if you need to report her to national. But you Definitely have the right to refuse any interpreter if you do not want them...on the spot.

[@witchypoo5278]

This is the type of crap Deaf people deal with daily. I don’t know how you all do it. I am an interpreter saying this.

[@rikkipoynter]

I've just grown up dealing with worse on a regular basis that this is a cakewalk haha

[@emcustard]

I've noticed that a lot of people tend to forget about receptive communication. Talking TO someone is different than talking WITH someone. Almost like they know what they're thinking and what you're saying, so they get both sides of the conversation. It doesn't matter whether you get both sides.

[@KomoliRihyoh]

A lesson that I need to keep reminding myself or my friends of when interacting with people providing us a service is that reporting someone is *normal,* and *not* reporting causes more harm than if you did. I used to always be afraid that if I told someone's higher-ups that their employee didn't do what they were supposed to, that I was unduly harming that worker. In reality, *not* saying anything means they will continue to make mistakes and harming *multiple* people.

[@darkestlight6784]

I would recommend using the app called live translation. I hate having to deal with an interpreter especially for medical appointments. I have zero trust in interpreters.

[@rikkipoynter]

iOS Live Captions are a joke. I need to find my Pixel so I can use Live Transcribe.

[@donovan2384]

If you have the interpreters name you can always add a note next time you request an interpreter that they do not send her

[@viy2959]

Someone I know who hasn't had a lot of experience with interpreters because a lot of her needs weren't being met communication wise had an interpreter straight up tell her doctor she didn't know ASL. I was so furious.

[@reallyWyrd]

Very informative video. Ty!

[@JoshiesWorld]

You have every right to ask for an interpreter and a different interpreter if you don't like that interpreter. What's most important is that you have access, and no, you are right; they are not there to share their opinions or whatever, as they are there to interpret, that is it. Of course, unless you have befriended with them. I am familiar with the situation that you have been in. Unfortunately, there ARE interpreters who like the feeling of having power over us Deaf people when it comes to relaying the conversation. Even though my native language is ASL, I can speak it as well, and if I suddenly stop signing and then start voicing, these interpreters feel as if they have lost their power over us. It's like, "Deaf people need me, but it doesn't feel like it." It's actually common among the CODA interpreters; of course, I am not pointing out every single one of them, but there are some of them, especially if they are CODA, who often have that attitude. You are right; just because we can speak does not mean we are not Deaf. You can have an interpreter that would interpret whatever they say, and you can use your voice rather than signing if you want to because, again, the interpreters are only there to make sure that we have full access.

[@theshoemaker6506]

Thank you for sharing. The Interpreter was UNprofessional.

[@matthewdarkhaven1078]

I went to see Bonhoeffer today, and it had open captions!! They were in Spanish though, so I couldn’t understand them very well 😂

[@alyssachey8417]

I had a really bad intervenor 20 years ago when I was in college. I found her condescending and she would not help me in group conversations. There was a few other things that were a problem for me, but I haven’t thought about her in almost 20 years. I did let her go after that semester. I was too scared to report her at the time. My next intervenor was fantastic.

[@pinguthegreek]

I think you did the right thing feeding back that the interpreter acted inappropriately. You have to trust that your allocated interpreter will understand the mechanics of deaf communication needs. Especially in medical possibly intimate situations. She can’t learn from her mistakes unless they get pointed out. It doesn’t mean you’re turning into a Karen, you’re just being clear what you expect and what isn’t OK.

[@TLForsberg]

Thank you for reporting this. I have had this experience as well, and it's deeply unethical of people to question your need for an accommodation based on her bias on how you express. THANK YOU for giving attention to this before. I released someone in the middle of a meeting bc of this similar behavior. SUPER NOT OKAY! And you never have to justify your signing style and your right to your own Deafhood journey and self-expression!

[@blondiegirl2107]

She should’ve been fired as a whole tho! Thts INCREDIBLY INAPPROPRIATE! You don’t have to explain yourself as to why you need an interpreter.. you grew up mainstreamed, but it’s still hard to read lips.. sometimes clients don’t need voicing but still need signing.. that’s not uncommon! I’m hard of hearing and grew up speaking.. so I wouldn’t need an interpreter to speak for me, but in certain situations, I’d request one to sign for me.. so I don’t miss words and understand EVERYTHING being said to me if that was vital. You had 100% every right to report this interpreter.. well deserved

[@novied5871]

That interpreter sounds like someone that would assume my nephew is deaf because he signs. In reality he's non verbal and uses adaptive ASL or types out what he wants to say.

[@Kivamusicchannel]

lol for some reason my brain can’t stop reading ASL as “age, sex, location”

[@rikkipoynter]

I didn't start learning ASL until my 20s so I was the "Age, Sex, Location" person for so long and it took me a while lol

[@mrsrussell]

Ok, this interpreter is ticking me off😢 on another note... one of your reactions reminded me so much of my daughter😂😂😂❤

[@Voxann]

Yes, I have fired an interpreter before at my former job. I told the boss of the ASL terp company that I do not want him to be one of my interpreters because I didn't like that he was signing SEE. So she told me "no problem! I will put him on your do-not-assign list." That was as simple as that. I felt much better about it.

[@donovan2384]

I’m shocked the interpreter forgot that being raised oral is like,,,, 👏👏 good for you for reporting her

[@ThisPossumKnits]

It sounds like she *should* lose her job! Good on you for not letting a random weirdo gatekeep your health! 🤘

[@Kate-f1n]

Wow. U r opening up my head as a 'hearing' person. Also, never underestimate the deafness of The Hearing. 'Cause we deaf in waaays... and im preaching to choirs, sorry. Please keep practicing asl, im going start introducing same as i learn, at work...im excited! This is going to be very upsetting to certain co workers. On top of slowly (cause Im slow) learning Columbian. COOL. Wait dammit asl...so ... actually, there's diff sl's to learn...🤣🤣🤣 I am so screwed. This going to be interesting 😂 ❤️🕊️

[@spiritwhitewolf]

You have own a right to request for a new ASL interpreter... Therefore, No one shouldn't peddle on what you choose to signing or use voice to talk. I'm glad that you did reported on her for what she does was wrong. My partner choose to be attend in any medical checkup/clinic with me as be my Voice/Ears because they KNEW me at best since we are together over 15years.

[@Bobbi-pisces]

I would have asked too. Not only can you talk but you have a hearing aid. Great job

[@rikkipoynter]

I've been talking since the average age kids start talking and lots of deaf people, even non-oral, have hearing aids...? You're literally not supposed to ask. It's against ethics code.

[@Bobbi-pisces]

@rikkipoynter I understand. I wouldn't have asked as a professional

[@draquela96]

Wow this is so ableist and unprofessional, I can't even believe it

[@sytmor]

Wow! You'd think out of everyone, an interpreter would know that Deaf people can speak too, and that it doesn't mean that they don't need an interpreter. I'm so sorry this happened to you, and I'm glad you fired and reported her. Hopefully, someone can talk with her about how inappropriate it is to ask clients if they "really need" your services.

[@richiefrancis8424]

Hi Rikki, I’m sorry that you’re having a hard time getting a interpreter for you but hopefully you’ll find a perfect one ☝:)

[@rikkipoynter]

Nah, it's not hard getting an interpreter for me in this situation. This was the only time in years of using ASL interpreters that I fired one.

[@pocothehotdog9684]

No, that interpreter is wrong, period. That interpreter did not do their job right and what they did was unethically wrong. The way they treated and spoke to you screams abliest to me.

[@Just_an_Aussie-q8b]

I couldn't imagine working in a job that supports people with a disability and at the same time understanding so little about it. That's disgraceful it should be part of the course/qualification to learn about people who are deaf. In saying that I wouldn't be surprised if it is and this woman was just too arrogant to pay any attention.

[@padmearmadillo2915]

This is such bizarre behavior from that interpreter. Even if she's confused that you can speak (which is weird to begin with because this is very common and makes it seem like she's extremely inexperienced and not interacted with many deaf people at all wow), why is she trying to talk herself out of a job? She was being paid to be there, even if you didn't need her at all, even if for some wild and bizarre reason someone was faking being deaf and needing an interpreter (which would be an extremely weird thing to do but let's go with it), it shouldn't matter when she's being paid to be there and do the job.

[@aminorjourney]

Well done for advocating for yourself. She clearly infantilized deaf people, and she doesn't understand deafness very well. Your choosing to pick one-way vocalization is normal and okay. My late sister used to have to deal with this kind of BS 20 years ago when using TTY relay services with companies who refused to communicate with her because she, like you, sometimes chose to use voice for communication with hearing people. Those companies didn't understand that she needed an interpreter to help her understand their speech. Her behavior is not okay. Firing your interpreter is totally okay. They are being hired to perform a service. They should be professional. And if they are not, that is THEIR fault, no-body else!

[@s.r.3266]

So weird… I’ve had several clients that chose to use their voice, and I just roll with it. It is absolutely their prerogative if that’s what they choose to use. Interpreters should be flexible. It is OUR responsibility to match the CLIENT’S language.

[@dianesquires9987]

You did the right thing.

[@Imjustkendall]

Not deaf but I know a lady who tried to “interpret” randomly for my deaf friend while we were out. I help her practice lip reading by not signing on purpose, because she wants to get better at it. So were we out shopping and I was taking to her, and I guess she looked like she was having a hard time keeping up because this random lady walked up to us and started signing what I was saying….. incorrectly. My friend said she got it wrong and was signing random words and weird hand movements, when we asked her who tf she was or what she doing she just said she wanted to help, and god give her a gift to speak to the impaired and it’s her calling….we were both like 19 at the time it was weird as HELL.

[@RedXiongmao]

I've noticed that a lot of people just cannot fathom that a deaf person can't hear, but they have no problem understanding that a hearing person may not speak the same language, because I've heard a version of this story from so many people. I work in a call center and occasionally I get someone who asks for an interpreter, and pretty frequently the client will just start talking directly to me halfway through the conversation. I have never heard a coworker complain about "oh why do they ask for an interpreter when they don't need one" so like what's the disconnect?

[@missychan63]

Why did she care whether you really needed her or not? She was being paid either way... It's not up to the interpreter to decide how much or how little help you need, it's up to them to do the job they were hired for.

[@lizzy-wx4rx]

Why not just explain? As someone new here, hoping to learn more, I'm confused myself. (How do you know what her tone of voice was?)

[@pinguthegreek]

Facial expressions?

[@rikkipoynter]

Explain what? I explained to her, like I said in the video. And she knows she's not supposed to make any personal commentary, especially about a deaf person, under the Code of Ethics and other things they learn under Deaf Studies when they're in their interpreting program. I was at the audiologist. I had my hearing aids and heard her. Facial expressions and residual hearing too.

[@d0llbie]

I'm 22 and going deaf. You can be raised hearing and entirely speaking and lose your hearing early in adulthood. It can happen.

[@morecringe89]

Great humor.

[@Wee_Catalyst]

Blacklist that interpreter-we don’t need to put up with aides who are treating us poorly, life is hard enough without letting people like that making it harder instead of easier-the whole point of their job is to

[@clairecheskin4213]

You did a good thing to get rid of her

[@margarethorrall8621]

How can an ASL interpreter not know that not every deaf person has been profoundly deaf and/or deaf since birth? WTF? I'm not an ASL interpreter but I know a couple of them and they would be horrified by this lady's experience. Maybe the 'Terp in this story needs to actually be fired by her employer. If I was hearing impaired, I wouldn't be able to trust her not to inject her rude, opinionated crap into the conversation.

[@megb9700]

I am learning ASL because I work with people with disabilities. I’ve noticed many people who are deaf, or their families sign differently. It’s their “hand voice.” But, that interpreter was inappropriate and rude. I would expect an audiologist to have regular, good, interpreters on hand. 🤟🏾

[@Dayholly86]

You should never be required to explain the difference between deaf and mute!