Offering sign language interpretation at your event makes it accessible to participants who use a sign language as their mode of communication. The sign language interpreters work between a spoken language and a sign language for the benefit of two distinct audiences: those who sign and those who use a spoken language. This enables all participants to communicate. Depending on the type of event, the sign language interpreters stand or sit next to the main presenter so that they can hear and see the speakers and participants well. Unlike spoken language interpreters, sign language interpreters do not work from a booth. However, they still require a high-quality audio feed, for example via an audio monitor or a wireless receiver and headset. Similarly, sign language interpretation can be provided between two sign languages, in which case the sign language interpreter must have a clear and direct view of the signer at all times. The sign language interpretation can also be web streamed to allow remote participants to follow the event.

Just as there are many spoken languages there are also many different sign languages. Each country has its own national and sometimes regional sign languages. It is therefore important to know which sign language your participants will use. We recommend that you include a question in your event registration form asking participants whether they require a sign language interpreter and, if so, into which sign language.

There is also International Sign (IS), which is a combination of different sign languages. International Sign is frequently used at international meetings of signers from different countries. Even though International Sign is a common mode of communication in international settings, not everyone is fluent in International Sign. In other words, it should not be assumed that International Sign would provide all signers with sufficient access to your event. Similarly, it is important to identify the spoken languages required at your event, so that interpreter(s) with the right language combination can be sought.

Calliope’s sign language interpreting consultant can provide you with advice tailored to your event.

We recommend that you request sign language interpreting services early on, when your event is in the planning phase. This allows you to advertise to potential participants that your event is accessible to participants who use a sign language. We generally recommend offering interpreting services in the national sign language of the country where you are hosting your event, as well as in International Sign, so that it is accessible to both local and international signers. Since there is a limited supply of sign language conference interpreters, particularly offering International Sign, planning early will help you secure their services.