A request was made for a Sign Language Interpreter to be present at the Memorial Service of a family member. The logistics in this process was less than acceptable and the availability for our request was almost non-existent. Each State has various rules and regulations for requesting interpreters and all Interpreting agencies require at least 2 weeks notice.
When you're dealing with the last minute preparations for funerals, and/or memorial services, the luxury of 2 weeks to plan ahead is not available. The subject matter of death is not something most people want to discuss, however it is imperative that there are systems in place for such occasions.
I am proposing a nationwide solution, The Compassionate Interpreter. This internet tool will connect interpreters with Deaf Consumers and their families, in need of interpreting services during times of bereavement
Going to memorial or funeral services for most people, gives an opportunity for closure, to say your last good-byes, to share stories and to show a support of love and compassion for all those affected by the loss of a loved one. Unless you knew an interpreter, or a family member could sign, the deaf mourner was not “hearing” or allowed to be “heard” along with the hearing mourners. Everyone should have an equal opportunity to be able to express his or her loss and hopefully this project will spearhead this into a voice for everyone.
My hope is that the close knit community of Interpreters will not only support my quest for a National Database but spread the word to all of their colleagues and friends. Any suggestions or comments regarding this project would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
MJ Billings-Grein
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Hi MJ,
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like an excellent idea. For starters, I would recommend contacting Joan Wattman. After the MCDHH's recent termination of stipends for after-hours emergency on-call interpreters, she was integral in compiling a new database of interpreters willing to go on call without a stipend. It sounds like what you propose would require a process similar to what she's gone through in compiling her on-call list. She may be able to offer some insight on what is involved based on her experience. In addition, Joan is currently serving as the Region I (Western Mass) representative to the MassRID Board. She's also super nice.
Joan's pager address: Jwattman@vzw.blackberry.net
Joan's MassRID address: regioni@massrid.org
Keep up the good work!
~Drew Pidkameny
MJ, this is an idea beyond its time. I had a HS friend who went into the funeral business call me because someone needed an interpreter at a service and he knew I was one. I couldn't do it and put out the call to 100 or so interpreters. No one took the gig. I know they weren't interested in paying, even though I made the case for why someone needed to pay if they needed an interpreter in a scramble. But either way, there just wasn't anyone and I felt bad. Yes, we need to standardize a means of contact. Death and dying, and grief interpreting is a toughie and it can't just be anyone. I think it's kind of a combination of religious, mental health, and performance interpreting. There's a solemnity and gravity that must be observed oftentimes. Not all interpreters are comfortable in this environment. Good luck in this endeavor. It has legs and has the ability to build a movement. Cheers.
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