Links referenced in this vlog

• Defined from an educational interpreter's piont of view
• Educational interpreters and their use
• Experience from a student's point of view

Joseph: This brought a memory of when I attend deaf school and mainstreamed school dually. I was not happy with the interpreter's ability and continue to discipline us. I took an action to make a report to the supervisor that I want a replacement and request for interpreter who are proficient in ASL. I also report on the interpreter abusing the role as a disciplinarian. My wish was denied thus we press more and the meeting was called involved deaf school principal, interpreter's supervisor, and my teacher who is an expert and an activist in ASL and deaf studies to support me. Through the meeting I addressed the problems. On discussion of ASL usage, they don't advocate ASL because it will not help us learn. They look at ASL just like it is a broken English. I continue to debate that ASL is the foundation and a language. It pointed out that it is my right to choose which preferred language I want. They refuse to accept despite they are RID certificated interpreters. Then I discuss that the interpreter must have a boundary and left the responsible to the teacher. Again, I was denied and said that is a responsible of an educational interpreter. I left the meeting frustrated and disappointed. My principal who was a coda didn't help. My teacher didn't put up a good battle. They both confessed that we were right. I can imagine how many students are going through a hellish ordeal not know what to do or accept and believe that is how the system works. Why did I protest is because I was taught by deaf leaders, my training through Jr. NAD, and understand the oppression through deaf studies that gave me the courage to stand up but I was not strong enough keep going on. It was a system of a machiavellianism. I was only a jr. high school student. This experience has enable me to work with youth by educate and empower their rights so that we can continue to elevate ourselves. It is my heart that go out to those deaf children who are being disadvantaged.

LaRonda: Lauren, I have enjoyed your vlogs so much and decided to register with i711 just so I could make comments! Your presence is so beautiful and clear on your vlogs and the information you have to share is always enjoyable, relevant and educational for the deaf community. Thank you for your professionalism, your vibrance and your pace. You are easy to watch. I look forward to all of your vlogs. Keep up the great work! ~ LaRonda www.earofmyheart.com