Sign language interpreter challenges and tips

By Katie Rockett

A sign language interpreter stands beside Governor Whitmer during a press release in July 2020. Sign language interpreters have gained visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic due to frequent updates and broadcasts. (Photo/WLNS News) 

With the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, many jobs shifted online. Some careers had a tougher transition than others based on the nature of the job, including sign language interpreters. 

The importance of interpreters is often ignored by members of the hearing community, but the pandemic has brought new visibility to the field. 

According to the Frontier, political announcements have frequented the news this year, and next to the speaker is often a sign language interpreter. The key difference is that they are not off to the side like they would have been at in-person events and speeches.