By Roxane Albond-Buchner

You never know where you’ll find an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter in Western New York or Rochester. Many interpreters contracted through People Inc. are at press conferences, tours, award ceremonies, or assisting at medical appointments, court proceedings, and trainings.

Karen Gambino, who transformed her own experience as the child of a deaf adult into a lasting career as an interpreter, said, “Put yourself in the shoes of a deaf person who relies on others to provide information or services. They want to maintain their autonomy, be understood, and part of the communication process.”

ASL has its own grammar structure and cultural context, which is not the equivalent of spoken English. For example, ASL demands that attitudes, emotions, tone, and meaning be conveyed simultaneously. Gambino, who paints a picture using her hands and facial expressions, says life experience is also important, as are current events, and learning new technical terms. For example, to describe a deed at a legal property closing, Gambino had to illustrate that the paper deed showed home ownership.

Jodie Chibi, interpreter and Director of Language Services at People Inc., noted the importance of confidentiality, ethics, and respect when interpreting. “We must abide by a code of professional conduct and undergo stringent training by experts required by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.” Meanwhile, Gambino says she is proud of interpreting, and also pleased to help raise awareness in the hearing community.

Learn more about how People Inc.’s Deaf Access Services program is providing a crucial bridge to communication and independence for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing at https://people-inc.org/deafaccess. You can also call 716-833-1637 or use videophone, by dialing 716-335-9388.

Roxane Albond-Buchner is Communications Director People Inc.