Page 113 - Reading Between the Sign Intercultural Communication for Sign Language Interpreters

98 Reading Between the Signs

ASL provides many ways to unequivocally depict the various pos-
sibilities. If the interpreter, however, chooses to use a generic sign
such as “BM” out of his or her own embarrassment, both parties
may suffer from the inadequate communication. Similarly, while
statements related to sexual behavior may be comfortably vague
in English (e.g., “Do you practice safe sex?”), to accurately convey
the information in ASL, interpreters may have to overcome their
natural reticence to explicitly describe sexual activity.

Clear Access to Visual Communication
Since the eye and the ear process information differently on its
way to the brain, a visual language poses different requirements
than a spoken one. Nondeaf people can hear several things at the
same time without expending any effort: the TV blaring, birds
chirping outside, and the teenager talking on the phone in the
next room. The flip side of hearing things without having to lis-
ten, however, is that we do not have complete control over our
hearing. In fact, we are often bothered by noises we wish we could
shut out, especially when we are trying to sleep.
Eyes, on the other hand, can only focus on one thing at a
time. Seeing necessitates watching, and a prolonged effort can
make the eyes tired. Such is the importance of access to commu-
nication in the Deaf world that neither intimate conversations nor
large meetings begin before participants make sure that everyone
has a clear and comfortable view.
For conversations in a visual language, certain conditions are
necessary: enough light in the right place and an absence of vi-
sual distractions. In many Deaf homes, furniture is arranged in a
semicircular setting to allow clear visual access. The kitchen is
often the most popular spot in the house because of its bright
lights and round table. With this in mind, interpreters should never
position themselves in front of an unshuttered window, as back
lighting produces a glare that is hard to endure for long periods.
Sometimes Deaf speakers or interpreters are asked by the group
to stand on a chair so they may be more visible. Deaf banquet
planners also know that even low centerpieces may end up on
the floor so that conversations across tables are not hindered.
In a world where communication is highly valued, refusing to
look at a person who is telling you something is one of the rudest
possible behaviors. In the middle of a signed argument, it is prob-
ably more of a rejection for Deaf participants to close their eyes or

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