jordansangalang.com

Category: Access and Inclusion

  • Making Accessibility Real

    How Asign Inc. Connects Organizations with Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and DeafBlind Canadians

    Hi, I’m Jordan Sangalang. I’m a Business Development Specialist at Asign Inc.—a Canadian-owned, Canadian-led company that helps organizations make their services accessible through sign language. If you’re a decision-maker, an accessibility lead, or you’re just starting to explore what inclusion looks like for your organization, this is for you.

    I’m Deaf. I’m based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. And I’ve spent my career in the space where accessibility meets business. What drives me is simple: every time an organization becomes more accessible, real people get better access to healthcare, education, government services, and opportunities they didn’t have before. That’s not just a mission statement—it’s something I’ve seen happen.

    What Asign Inc. Actually Does

    So what does Asign Inc. do? We provide two core services across Canada. Let me start with the one that changes how organizations think about accessibility.

    Asign On is our video remote interpreting platform. This is on-demand VRI. If a client needs an ASL or LSQ interpreter right now—not tomorrow, not next week—Asign On makes that happen in seconds. No scheduling. No waiting. No barriers. You open the platform, you connect, and you’re communicating. It’s the fastest way to connect with Deaf or hard-of-hearing customers, employees, or clients.

    We also offer scheduled interpreting—both in-person and remote—when you know exactly when and where you need support. And for organizations with written or pre-recorded content, we provide translation services from English into ASL and from French into LSQ.

    Bottom line: whether it’s on-demand, scheduled, in-person, remote, or translation, we build a communication solution that fits how you actually work.

    Who We Work With

    Our clients come from across sectors—financial services, government, transportation, corporate, and beyond. If your organization needs to communicate with Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or DeafBlind Canadians, we’ll build a solution that fits your specific context.

    Every sector has its own terminology, its own regulatory environment, and its own communication challenges. Our interpreters become subject matter experts on your business—so when they show up, they already understand your world.

    Who This Actually Reaches

    Let’s talk about who this work reaches: the Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and DeafBlind communities across Canada, in both ASL and LSQ. Whether someone is accessing a service, sitting in a meeting, or watching your content, our interpreting and translation work is what makes that experience equitable.

    Accessibility isn’t a checkbox. It’s about dignity. It’s about making sure no one gets left out because the information wasn’t available in their language.

    Why Organizations Choose Asign Inc.

    So why do organizations choose Asign Inc.?

    First, we’ve been doing this since 1997. That’s nearly three decades of interpreting and translation expertise. We’re certified with the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the Canadian Language Industry Association (CLIA). We’re also certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise with WBE Canada and WeConnect International.

    Second, our interpreters are professionals at the highest level. They carry security clearances ranging from Reliability to Top Secret. They receive ongoing professional development and mentorship. When you work with us, you’re getting interpreters who are continuously learning and improving.

    And third, we’re Canadian-owned and Canadian-led. We understand the Canadian landscape: the bilingual English-French context, the regulatory environment, and the unique needs of organizations operating across provinces. But more than that—we’re community-driven. We’re deeply connected to the Deaf community. Its language. Its culture. Its diversity. That connection isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation of everything we do.

    Trust Matters

    This introduction exists so that when someone looks me up, they know exactly who they’re dealing with before they even reach out. Trust matters in this space. When you’re hiring someone to make your organization accessible, you need to know they understand the stakes.

    You need to know they have the certifications, the experience, and the track record. Asign Inc. does. And I’m here to make sure you get the right solution—not a one-size-fits-all package, but something built around your actual needs.

    Where Do We Start?

    If you’re thinking, “Okay, where do we start?”—here’s what I’d suggest: reach out. Let’s have a conversation about what your organization needs. No pressure. We’ll talk about your goals, your audience, and whether Asign Inc. is the right fit.

    You can contact me directly, or visit asign.ca to learn more.

    Need accessible, on-demand sign language solutions for your organization? Let’s talk.

    Thanks for reading. I’m Jordan Sangalang, Business Development Specialist at Asign Inc. Looking forward to connecting.

  • Day 3: Deaf Accessibility Wins – My First VRI On-Demand Experience

    A few weeks ago, we had severe weather — hail, pouring rain, and even a tornado warning. Many homes in the area had flooded basements because their sump pumps stopped working when the power went out. That got me thinking about home systems and accessibility.

    It reminded me of when we needed to replace our old gas-powered boiler. It wasn’t up to code, had asbestos, and the emissions made the basement unsafe for my family. We reached out to a couple of HVAC companies for quotes. When their reps came to our house, it was the first time I tried VRI On-Demand services.

    At the time, it was still a pilot project using U.S.-based interpreters. It was incredibly convenient — no need to pre-book an interpreter. When the reps arrived (often within a wide time window), I could simply connect instantly on the device. I was able to understand the product presentations, ask questions, and make informed decisions.

    That firsthand experience showed me how powerful on-demand interpreting can be for Deaf Canadians. We already have Canada VRS (free for Deaf callers, funded by the CRTC), but VRI On-Demand is different — it’s typically paid for by businesses, organizations, or healthcare providers when serving customers.

    While some VRI On-Demand services exist now, many still rely heavily on non-Canadian interpreters or mixed pools. True accessibility means having reliable Canadian ASL/LSQ interpreters available when needed.

    If you’ve used VRI On-Demand at home, work, or in public — or if this is something you’d like to see more widely available — let me know in the comments!

    What about you? Have you had a positive experience with on-demand interpreting or another accessibility tool that made life easier? Share your story below.

    See you tomorrow for Day 4!

  • ‘Nothing About Us Without Us’: Why AI Accessibility Demands Deaf Leadership

    Author's Note

    This article was originally published on DeafDots on June 5, 2026.

    As the original author, I am republishing it here on my personal blog to make the content accessible to my audience and to continue the conversation around artificial intelligence, accessibility, and Deaf leadership.

    Original publication details:

    Title: "Nothing About Us Without Us: Why AI Accessibility Demands Deaf Leadership"

    Author: Jordan Sangalang, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

    Originally published by DeafDots on June 5, 2026.

    The article below appears substantially as originally published, with only minor formatting adjustments made for this website.

    By Jordan Sangalang, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

    As artificial intelligence rapidly embeds itself into Canadian infrastructure—influencing everything from automated workplace tools to emergency alert systems—advocates warn that a major digital divide is forming. Without deliberate intervention, the technology risks leaving behind millions of disabled Canadians.

    Jeffrey Beatty, Chairperson of the Deaf Wireless Canada Consultative Committee (DWCC), is stepping forward to outline the immense opportunities and steep systemic risks AI introduces to the daily lives of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (DDBHH) Canadians.

    Speaking strictly from a public accessibility policy perspective, Beatty emphasizes that the rise of AI is fundamentally shifting the landscape of human rights and communication access.

    “For Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Canadians, this is not just a technology issue,” Beatty states. “It is an accessibility, language, and rights issue.”

    A Tool for Efficiency, Not an Authority

    In his daily policy and advocacy work, Beatty actively leverages AI tools. He uses them to process large quantities of public information concerning telecommunications, regulatory captioning requirements, and digital services.

    “They help me organize information, summarize long documents, improve writing clarity, prepare notes, and compare complex public information,” Beatty explains. He views the technology as a valuable asset for parsing dense, multi-layered regulatory frameworks.

    However, Beatty is quick to draw a hard line between a tool that assists human capability and one that replaces it.

    “I do not treat AI as the final authority. AI can make mistakes, miss context, or give information that sounds confident but is wrong. AI supports the work. It does not replace DDBHH people.”

    For Beatty, the final judgment on any policy piece must remain rooted in human expertise, community accountability, and the lived realities of the DDBHH community.

    The Limitations of Text and Audio-Centric Design

    While text-generation models can streamline administrative tasks or translate complex legalese into plain language, Beatty notes that current mainstream AI design suffers from a deep-seated auditory bias.

    “My biggest concern is that many AI tools are still built around hearing people, speech, audio, and written English,” Beatty says. This structural bias means that users of American Sign Language (ASL), Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ), and Indigenous Sign Languages (ISLs) are frequently excluded or fundamentally misunderstood by modern algorithms.

    True communication access extends far beyond basic English text transcription. Sign languages are distinct, complete languages featuring complex spatial structures and cultural nuances.

    “Many Deaf people use ASL, LSQ, or ISLs which include visual grammar, facial expression, movement, space, and culture. AI tools must respect that,” Beatty says. He notes that poorly trained models regularly generate inaccurate captions, broken translations, or digital avatars that completely fail to replicate real sign language syntax.

    Furthermore, Beatty highlights serious emerging risks regarding data sovereignty, consent, and safety. Because sign languages are inherently visual, training AI translation tools requires vast amounts of video data—raising critical concerns about personal privacy, digital identity ownership, and the targeted misuse of deepfake technology.

    A Vision for Deaf-Led Governance

    To prevent these technologies from further marginalizing communities, Beatty calls for a complete overhaul of how accessibility is handled in tech development. Historically, accessibility features have been treated as an afterthought—tacked onto a product right before release.

    Beatty argues that the DDBHH community must be structurally integrated into the entire lifecycle of AI development, moving from passive consumers to systemic leaders.

    “In the future, I hope DDBHH Canadians are not only users of AI,” Beatty shares. “We should be leaders, testers, researchers, educators, policy advisors, and decision-makers.”

    The ultimate goal is to see AI safely deployed to improve automated captioning accuracy, strengthen localized emergency communications, and lower barriers to public services—but strictly under a framework of cultural respect and Deaf-led governance.

    “My hope is simple,” says Beatty. “AI should not speak for DDBHH people. AI should support DDBHH people, with DDBHH leadership built in from the start.”

    Watch the full video interview below to hear Jeffrey Beatty’s complete perspective on AI policy and accessibility in Canada:

    Play Video Interview.
    Note: Video will pop up when pressing ‘Play’

    Have Your Say

    How is artificial intelligence affecting your daily access to services, employment, or education? Should the Canadian government mandate disabled and Deaf leadership when setting national AI accessibility standards?

    Leave your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.

    About This Article

    This article was originally reported and written by Jordan Sangalang and first published by DeafDots on June 5, 2026. It is republished here by the author to support ongoing discussions about AI accessibility, Deaf leadership, and inclusive technology policy in Canada.

  • Protecting Kids Online

    Why the Conversation About Social Media and Youth Needs More Nuance

    Canada is taking a significant step toward addressing online safety for children.

    This week, the federal government is tabling legislation that would ban social media platforms from allowing Canadian children under the age of 16 to create and maintain accounts. Under the proposed online safety bill, technology companies could apply for exemptions if they can demonstrate that their platforms meet strict safety standards designed to protect young users.

    The legislation would also establish new responsibilities for AI chatbots, requiring safeguards and accountability measures to reduce potential harms to children and youth. The proposal comes after years of advocacy from child safety organizations and growing concerns about cyberbullying, online exploitation, harmful content, and the impact of social media on youth mental health.

    The conversation is not limited to Ottawa. Here in Manitoba, Premier Wab Kinew has also expressed support for restricting social media access for children under 16, reflecting a broader national discussion about how best to protect young people in an increasingly digital world.

    As a parent, I understand why governments are paying attention.

    Every day, children interact with platforms designed by some of the most sophisticated technology companies in the world. These companies invest billions of dollars into creating products that keep users engaged, scrolling, watching, clicking, and returning. Parents often feel as though they are competing against systems specifically designed to capture and hold their children’s attention.

    There is no question that online safety deserves serious attention.

    But as a Deaf parent raising Deaf children, I believe there is another side of this conversation that deserves equal consideration.

    The Internet Was More Than Entertainment for Me

    When I was growing up, the internet was not simply a source of entertainment.

    It was a gateway to a world that often felt out of reach.

    As a Deaf youth living in Winnipeg, my opportunities to connect with other Deaf peers were naturally limited. While Winnipeg has a strong Deaf community, it is considerably smaller than those found in larger cities such as Toronto or Vancouver. The reality was that there were only so many Deaf youth my age that I could meet and interact with locally.

    The internet changed that.

    Long before smartphones and today’s social media platforms, I spent countless hours in chatrooms, instant messaging services, and early social networking websites such as AIM, MySpace, Friendster, and AsianAvenue.

    Those platforms gave me opportunities that extended far beyond socializing.

    They helped me improve my literacy and English communication skills. They exposed me to pop culture, current events, and trends happening outside of Winnipeg. They allowed me to participate in conversations with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Most importantly, they connected me with friends across Canada and the United States.

    Those interactions helped build my confidence and gave me a stronger sense of belonging in a world that often felt inaccessible.

    Looking back, those online connections played a meaningful role in my personal growth and development.

    What About Deaf Children Today?

    This is why I believe we need to be careful when discussing blanket restrictions on social media access for young people.

    For many Deaf children living in rural communities or areas with limited resources, online platforms can serve a much larger purpose than entertainment or casual socializing.

    They can be critical tools for identity development, language access, peer connection, mentorship, and community building.

    Imagine being a Deaf child living in a small town where you are the only Deaf student in your school. You may rarely, if ever, have the opportunity to interact with another Deaf child your age. You may not have easy access to Deaf role models, mentors, or a larger Deaf community.

    Online communities can help bridge that gap.

    They can provide opportunities to connect with other Deaf youth, learn from Deaf adults, explore Deaf culture, access information, and develop a stronger sense of identity and belonging.

    For some children, these online spaces are not simply optional social networks. They are lifelines to a broader community that may not exist in their immediate environment.

    That reality should be part of the conversation.

    The Problem Isn’t Simply Access

    At the heart of this debate is a larger question.

    Is the issue that children have access to social media?

    Or is the issue that social media platforms have not done enough to create safe environments for children?

    I believe the answer is the latter.

    Technology companies control the algorithms that determine what content children see. They design the features that encourage prolonged engagement. They decide how recommendations work, how safety tools are implemented, and how harmful content is moderated.

    Parents certainly have a responsibility to guide and monitor their children’s online experiences.

    But it should not be the sole responsibility of parents to outsmart systems intentionally designed to maximize engagement.

    When policymakers discuss protecting children online, accountability should not rest entirely on families.

    Technology companies must also be held accountable for the products they create.

    What Real Protection Should Look Like

    If social media companies want exemptions under Canada’s proposed legislation, the standards should be meaningful.

    Success should not be measured solely by whether a platform can verify a user’s age.

    Success should be measured by outcomes.

    Are children safer?

    Are cyberbullying rates decreasing?

    Are harmful content recommendations being reduced?

    Are vulnerable youth being protected from exploitation?

    Are platforms designing products that prioritize wellbeing instead of engagement at all costs?

    These are the questions that matter.

    A social media ban may sound protective, but if children easily find ways around restrictions while harmful platform designs remain unchanged, we have not solved the underlying problem.

    The goal should be to make online spaces safer, not simply harder to access.

    A Balanced Approach

    I support efforts to protect children online.

    As a parent, I want my children to be safe from harmful content, cyberbullying, exploitation, and addictive platform designs.

    At the same time, I do not want us to overlook the positive role that online communities can play, particularly for children who face barriers to communication, connection, and belonging.

    For Deaf youth, online platforms can provide opportunities that may not exist locally. They can foster friendships, build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and connect children to communities that help shape their identity.

    As Canadians debate the future of social media regulation, I hope we avoid framing this issue as a simple choice between unrestricted access and outright bans.

    The real challenge is creating digital environments that are both safe and meaningful.

    Protecting children online is important. But true protection requires more than legislation alone. It requires technology companies to take responsibility for the environments they create, policymakers to consider the diverse needs of young people, and parents to remain engaged in their children’s digital lives.

    As a Deaf parent, I want my children to have the same opportunities for connection, learning, and growth that helped shape my own journey.

    The challenge before us is finding a way to preserve those opportunities while ensuring that children can explore the online world safely.

    That is a goal worth pursuing.

  • Why Deaf Travelers Still Face ‘Deer in Headlights’ Moments at Airports in 2026

    One of my recent trip to the airport felt a little different—not truly unusual, but I’ve grown comfortable arriving much closer to departure time than recommended. This time, I got there less than 30 minutes before takeoff. After picking up the kids from school, we headed straight there.

    As a Deaf traveler, I’ve learned to assume that no one at the airport knows ASL. So, I proactively let people know I’m Deaf at every step. It starts right after showing my boarding pass, when I’m directed to the right security line. As I move forward in the queue, I prepare to remove my boots, jacket, carry-on items, laptop, and liquids (in a clear plastic bag).

    When I reach the TSA officer, they usually say something, and I respond by signing and gesturing that I’m Deaf. They often ask to see my boarding pass again to scan it. Then I walk through the full-body scanner and wait for my belongings to come through.

    After clearing security, I head directly to my gate with my boarding pass and ID ready. Near the gate, I let the flight attendant know I’m Deaf. Once onboard, I settle into my seat and stay alert to see if anyone sits next to me.

    Flight attendants sometimes approach to speak to me. If I’m reading or focused elsewhere, other passengers might glance over, signaling that someone’s trying to get my attention. I let the attendant know I’m Deaf again. The reaction is almost always the classic “deer in headlights” look—wide eyes and a frozen expression.

    I quickly pull out my phone, turn on the voice-to-text feature, and hand it over. They usually ask awkwardly, “Is there anything I can help you with?” I respond with two thumbs up, a friendly smile, and a nod to reassure them I’m all set and will ask if I need anything. (I could joke, “How about a back massage?”—but that might make things even more awkward!)

    Then the plane taxis to the runway and takes off.

    However, the day doesn’t end at takeoff—or even at landing. When I arrived, it was evening and cold outside. Knowing I’d be hungry and tired by the time I reached the hotel, I decided to grab takeout first.

    At the restaurant, I gestured with a smile while waiting for the cashier. She looked tired—probably near the end of her shift. When I signed that I was Deaf, she seemed surprised, just like so many others. I paid, then hopped into an Uber.

    The driver turned out to be hard of hearing too. When I let him know I was Deaf, he lit up with an “Oh!” and pointed to his ear, gesturing “so-so” to indicate his own hearing level. The ride to the hotel was quiet (pun intended). When we arrived, I signed “thank you,” and he smiled back warmly.

    I walked into the hotel lobby and approached the front desk to check in. Once again, I gestured that I was Deaf. After a short wait, I received my key card and headed to the elevator.

    As I stood there, a man joined me and gave a polite smile. I didn’t realize he’d said something, so I smiled back and signed “Good evening.” He immediately understood I was Deaf. We stepped into the elevator together, rode up in comfortable silence, and parted ways on our respective floors.

    Finally, I reached my room, settled in, and that’s how I ended my long day.

    These moments—from the surprised cashier to the kind Uber driver who “got it,” the polite elevator exchange, and finally unwinding in the room with takeout—show how the communication dance continues long after the plane lands. It’s exhausting at times, but I do wonder what if these encounters can be more than just gestures but have these small talks and conversations.

    What do you think?

  • “It’s Accessible—It Has Captions”: Why That Assumption Still Excludes Deaf People in Canada

    As a Deaf dad, accessibility is not an abstract concept for me. It shows up in my work, my parenting, my community involvement, and in the everyday digital spaces my family and I navigate. It also shows up in conversations—often small, well-intentioned ones—that reveal how misunderstood Deaf accessibility still is.

    One such conversation recently took place on a social media messaging platform, and it highlighted a gap that many hearing content creators don’t realize exists.

    The creator reached out to me first, likely in the context of business, leads, or collaboration. She shared about her regular content posting and YouTube channel. As someone grounded in Deaf culture and accessibility work, I saw an opportunity to gently raise awareness about how her content could be more accessible to Deaf audiences—particularly Deaf leads, prospects, and clients.

    I suggested incorporating American Sign Language (ASL) for key videos, such as signed translations or interpretations.

    Her response was:

    “But it’s accessible with captions! And it’s my understanding most Deaf people can read English.”

    The exchange was polite and not hostile. Yet it reflected several deeply rooted misconceptions about Deaf accessibility—misconceptions that remain widespread in Canada. This experience is worth sharing not to single out one person, but to raise awareness about a systemic issue that continues to shape who is included and who is left out online.

    Captions Are Important—But They Are Not the Same as Access

    Captions play an important role in accessibility. They help many Deaf and hard-of-hearing people access spoken content, and when done well, they can include speaker identification and sound cues.

    However, captions alone are not an equivalent solution for the Deaf community.

    ASL Is a First Language for Many Deaf People

    For many Deaf Canadians—especially those who are prelingually Deaf and culturally Deaf—ASL is their first and primary language. ASL is not English on the hands. It is a fully developed visual language with its own grammar, syntax, and cultural meaning.

    ASL is experienced through movement, facial expression, and spatial relationships—not through reading text. When captions are presented in English, they assume fluency in a language that may be a second language for many Deaf people.

    In the Canadian context, this also includes la langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) and Indigenous sign languages used in some communities. Deaf Canadians are linguistically diverse, and English is not automatically the most accessible option.

    Captions Increase Cognitive Load

    Reading captions while watching visuals requires constant eye movement and mental processing. This can be especially challenging for fast-paced, technical, or emotionally nuanced content—particularly when captions are auto-generated and inaccurate (often referred to as “craptions”).

    ASL naturally conveys tone, emphasis, emotion, and intent through non-manual signals. For native signers, ASL often provides a clearer and more complete experience than written English captions.

    The Deaf Community Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

    Some Deaf people rely on captions. Some rely on ASL. Many prefer both. Needs vary depending on age of language exposure, education, identity, and access history.

    The statement “most Deaf people can read English” reflects a common assumption, but it oversimplifies reality. Research consistently shows wide variation in English literacy among Deaf individuals—largely due to language deprivation and systemic barriers in education.

    Assuming captions are sufficient for “most” people inevitably excludes those who already face the greatest barriers.

    What Canadian Deaf-Led Advocacy Has Long Said

    These issues are not new. Deaf-led organizations in Canada have been clear for decades:

    • The Canadian Association of the Deaf – Association des Sourds du Canada (CAD-ASC) advocates for the recognition and use of ASL, LSQ, and Indigenous sign languages. CAD-ASC played a key role in shaping the Accessible Canada Act, which explicitly names these sign languages in federal law and affirms the right to accessible communication.
    • The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA) promotes accessible communities while recognizing the diverse communication needs across Deaf and hard-of-hearing populations.
    • Canadian service providers such as Asign demonstrate how sign language interpreting, translation, and on-demand solutions remove real-world communication barriers in workplaces, education, and digital spaces.

    These perspectives align with international standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which recognize sign language as a necessary accessibility option—not an enhancement—for prerecorded content.

    “But It’s Accessible”: A Hearing-Centred Starting Point

    The response I received reflects a common hearing-centred mindset: captions are seen as “doing accessibility,” often based on general advice rather than Deaf input.

    The phrase “my understanding” matters. It signals reliance on assumptions rather than lived experience or Deaf-led knowledge. This is not about blame. Many hearing creators simply haven’t been exposed to Deaf linguistic realities.

    As a Deaf dad, I see how these assumptions show up everywhere—from online content to education systems to public services. They are rarely intentional, but their impact is real.

    Moving Toward Meaningful Accessibility

    Accessibility is not about perfection. It’s about choice, equity, and listening.

    Practical steps for Canadian content creators include:

    • Providing accurate, well-timed captions as a baseline.
    • Offering ASL or LSQ options for key content through signed videos, picture-in-picture interpreters, or separate sign language translations.
    • Consulting Deaf ASL/LSQ professionals and Deaf community members.
    • Asking audiences what they need instead of assuming.
    • Learning from Deaf-led organizations and Canadian accessibility frameworks.

    When accessibility is done well, everyone benefits. Deaf people gain meaningful participation—not partial access. Creators expand their reach and build trust with communities too often overlooked.

    Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

    If you’re a content creator, educator, employer, or organization in Canada, I invite you to reflect:

    Who might your current accessibility choices unintentionally exclude?

    This post isn’t meant to end the conversation—it’s meant to open one.

    As a Deaf dad and community advocate, I believe real accessibility grows through dialogue, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. If you have questions, reflections, or experiences to share, I welcome them. Let’s continue building digital spaces where Deaf people are not an afterthought, but an integral part of the audience from the start.

  • Why I’m Deleting the “Sales Coach” Vibe to Go All-In on Deaf Access

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  • Make Your Communications Truly Accessible

    Make Your Communications Truly Accessible

    Accessibility isn’t just about following rules—it’s about making sure everyone can find, understand, and use your information.

    The newly released CAN-ASC-3.1:2025 Plain Language Standard is helping organizations do just that. It’s designed to create clear, simple, and inclusive communications by removing barriers that may prevent people, including those with disabilities, from accessing information.

    Why Plain Language Matters

    Plain language makes your content:

    • Easy to understand: Audiences can quickly grasp the information.
    • Actionable: People know what to do next.
    • Trustworthy: Your audience feels confident in the accuracy of your communications.

    For organizations, using plain language also:

    • Reduces follow-up questions.
    • Improves efficiency in information sharing.
    • Builds credibility and trust with your audience.

    But here’s the catch—plain language isn’t enough for everyone.

    Why ASL Translation Matters

    For Deaf audiences, written communications alone often don’t fully convey your message. This is where American Sign Language (ASL) translation services come in. By translating your content into ASL:

    • Deaf individuals can fully access your information.
    • Engagement and understanding increase.
    • Your communications become truly inclusive and barrier-free.

    Think of it like this: plain language clears the path, and ASL translation opens the door. Together, they create a communication experience that works for everyone.

    Make Your Communications Inclusive Today

    If you want your organization’s communications to reach everyone, including Deaf audiences, combining plain language standards with ASL translation is the most effective strategy.

    Learn More About ASL Translation Services
  • Thinking Small: Why Chasing Money Alone Won’t Build Your Future as a Deaf Parent

    Thinking Small: Why Chasing Money Alone Won’t Build Your Future as a Deaf Parent

    As a Deaf parent with a full-time job, you’re balancing work, family, and accessibility challenges while dreaming of financial freedom through extra income streams like sales, freelancing, or solopreneurship. But if your sole focus is making quick money, you’re thinking small.

    I learned from my mentor who said chasing money alone traps you in a cycle of hustle without progress. For Deaf parents, building sustainable side hustles means prioritising value, impact, and growth over short-term cash grabs. Here’s why this mindset matters and how you can adopt it to create thriving income streams that fit your busy life.

    Why a Money-Only Mindset Limits You

    Focusing only on money in sales, freelancing, or solopreneurship turns your efforts into transactional tasks. Every client call, project, or business idea becomes about the immediate paycheque, which can lead to burnout, especially when you’re already stretched thin as a working parent.

    This approach overlooks the bigger picture: building a reputation, leveraging your unique skills as a Deaf individual, and creating income streams that grow without consuming all your time. For Deaf parents, who often face communication barriers or limited flexibility, a money-centric mindset can mean settling for low-value gigs that don’t honour your expertise or fit your family’s needs.

    The Rationale Behind Thinking Bigger

    1. Value Creation Drives Sustainable Income

    As a Deaf parent, your lived experience, navigating a hearing world, advocating for accessibility, or mastering communication, gives you unique insights to offer clients or customers. A money-only focus might push you to take any sales deal or freelance gig, but prioritising value builds trust and recurring revenue.

    As a freelancer, I learned that by focusing on clients who valued my expertise over taking every gig, my income doubled through trust and repeat business.

    For example, a Deaf parent offering ASL translation services could specialise in creating accessible content for businesses, becoming a go-to expert rather than a one-off hire. By solving real problems, like helping companies enhance access or empowering clients with clear communication, you create loyal clients who return and refer others, fitting income around your busy schedule.

    2. Long-Term Growth Fits Your Limited Time

    With a full-time job and family responsibilities, time is your most precious resource. A money-only mindset might lead you to low-paying, time-intensive gigs, but investing in scalable skills or systems maximises your impact.

    I learned from high-ticket sales that top earners study trends and refine their craft to scale earnings without working harder. For Deaf parents, this could mean learning high-demand skills like digital marketing or creating a solopreneur product, such as an online ASL course, sales resources, PDF guides, or e-books for hearing parents or businesses.

    For instance, spending a few hours recording a course on a platform like Teachable can generate passive income long-term, unlike one-off sales calls. These efforts build streams that grow without demanding every evening or weekend.

    3. Impact Fuels Motivation Amid Challenges

    Burnout is real for Deaf parents managing work, parenting, and accessibility needs. Chasing money alone can feel like a grind, but focusing on impact, empowering others, sharing your story, or solving meaningful problems, keeps you driven.

    As a solopreneur, I learned that client testimonials about how my work changed lives were more motivating than any paycheque.

    As a Deaf parent, you might find purpose in freelancing as an accessibility consultant, helping businesses create inclusive workplaces, or launching a side hustle mentoring other Deaf professionals. This sense of purpose sustains you through late-night work sessions or communication frustrations, aligning your side hustle with your values.

    4. Building a Legacy That Inspires Your Family

    Thinking bigger means creating something lasting: a business, a reputation, or a community that reflects your journey as a Deaf parent. A branding expert emphasised that sharing expertise builds authority, attracting clients who value your vision.

    For example, a Deaf parent in sales could share their story of overcoming barriers to close high-ticket deals, inspiring others while attracting clients. A freelancer might create a blog about balancing freelancing with parenting, positioning themselves as a niche expert. Or a solopreneur could launch a product, like an e-book or video series on Deaf entrepreneurship, that empowers the community.

    These efforts not only generate income but also show your kids what’s possible, leaving a legacy of resilience and impact.

    How Deaf Parents Can Shift to a Bigger Mindset

    Here are actionable steps to build sustainable income streams while balancing your full-time job and family life:

    • Prioritise Client or Customer Value: Identify problems you’re uniquely qualified to solve. For example, offer ASL workshops, sales resources, or PDF guides for workplaces or create accessible social media content for small businesses, charging for your expertise rather than just your time.
    • Invest in Scalable Skills or Systems: Use tools like Zoom for remote freelancing or platforms like Gumroad to sell digital products (e.g., ASL guides, sales resources, or PDFs). I learned that automating invoices with digital tools saved hours weekly, freeing time for family.
    • Leverage Your Story: Share your journey as a Deaf parent on blogs, LinkedIn, or community forums to build trust and attract clients. As someone who sells and promotes products and services, I learned that authentic storytelling led to a partnership that tripled my leads.
    • Measure Impact Over Money: Track wins like client feedback, community engagement, or lives impacted. As a solopreneur, I learned that a 5-star review from a client who championed accessibility was a bigger victory than a single sale because it opened new opportunities.

    Why This Matters for Deaf Parents

    As a Deaf parent with a full-time job, you face unique challenges: communication barriers, time constraints, and the need for flexible income. Sales, freelancing, or solopreneurship can be game-changers, but only if you think beyond quick cash.

    By focusing on value, you stand out in competitive fields. By prioritising growth, you build income streams that don’t demand every spare minute. By chasing impact, you empower your community and inspire your family.

    I’d say with my journey thus far, I’d sum this up by saying: “Stop selling your time; sell your impact. That’s how you scale.” This approach creates a cycle where clients return, your reputation grows, and income flows without sacrificing family time.

    Conclusion

    Chasing money alone as a Deaf parent building a side hustle is a trap that leads to burnout and missed opportunities. By focusing on value, growth, and impact, you create income streams that fit your busy life and reflect your unique strengths.

    As my mentor put it, “Money follows when you make a difference, not just a dollar.” Think big, leverage your story, and build a future where financial freedom and family time coexist, for you, your kids, and the Deaf community.

  • Bridging the Gap: Effective Communication Between Hearing and Deaf Individuals

    In our connected world, communication builds relationships, fosters understanding, and promotes inclusivity. For Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, communicating with hearing people who may not know sign language can be challenging. Fortunately, various tools, technologies, and methods exist to bridge this gap and enable meaningful interactions.

    Exploring Communication Options

    Several approaches facilitate communication between Deaf and hearing individuals:

    In-Person Sign Language Interpreters

    In-person interpreters provide face-to-face support, enabling natural and nuanced communication. They often specialize in fields like medical or legal interpreting, ensuring accuracy. For instance, in healthcare settings, interpreters help Deaf patients and providers communicate effectively.

    Video/Virtual Remote Interpreting (VRI)

    VRI offers remote access to interpreters anytime, anywhere, making it ideal for social gatherings, business meetings, or casual chats. Whether it’s a formal discussion or a spontaneous conversation, VRI ensures accessible and convenient communication.

    The Value of Small Talk

    Casual conversations—about the weather or weekend plans—build trust and strengthen social bonds. For Deaf and hearing individuals, interpreters or communication tools make these interactions more engaging and meaningful.

    Video Conferencing Platforms

    Platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams offer live captions, video chat, and screen-sharing, enabling remote communication for virtual meetings, classes, or social events.

    Messaging Apps

    Apps with video call features, such as WhatsApp or FaceTime, provide free or low-cost ways to communicate in real time, perfect for quick questions or in-depth discussions.

    Sign Language Dictionaries and Resources

    Online sign language dictionaries and tutorials help both Deaf and hearing individuals learn and refine their signing skills. These resources offer lessons, new signs, and answers to common questions.

    Additional Tools

    Real-time transcription apps, voice assistance tools, and sign language translation apps enhance communication by providing captions or translating signs during conversations.

    Best Practices for Effective Communication

    To communicate successfully, follow these guidelines:

    1. Clarity: Ensure everyone understands the communication method, tools, and expectations.
    2. Respect and Patience: Allow time for processing and clarification, maintaining a respectful tone.
    3. Cultural Awareness: Be sensitive to cultural differences to ensure inclusive communication.
    4. Adaptability: Use different tools or methods as needed to suit the situation.

    Real-World Applications

    These tools shine in various scenarios:

    • Healthcare: In-person interpreters or VRI help Deaf patients communicate with doctors.
    • Workplace: Video conferencing or VRI supports collaboration between Deaf and hearing colleagues.
    • Social Settings: Messaging apps or VRI connect Deaf and hearing friends or family.

    Conclusion

    Effective communication between Deaf and hearing individuals relies on understanding, respect, and the right tools. By leveraging interpreters, VRI, video platforms, messaging apps, and other technologies, we can break down barriers and create inclusive conversations. Every interaction—big or small—matters, and accessible communication ensures everyone’s voice is heard.