What is an ASL Interpreter?

Hey there, I’m Bloom! 👋 I’m a Deaf girl, and I have interacted a lot with interpreters! So, what is an ASL interpreter?

I get this question a lot, especially from hearing people who are just starting their ASL journey:

"What exactly does an ASL interpreter do?"

Let me tell you, ASL interpreters are amazing—and they’re a big part of how I navigate the world! 💙

🧏‍♀️ So… what IS an interpreter?

An ASL interpreter is someone who helps Deaf and hearing people understand each other by translating between English and American Sign Language (ASL) in real time.

They don’t add or change anything—they’re just the bridge between two languages. And no, they’re not part of the conversation! They're there to facilitate, not participate. 🤝

I might use an interpreter at:

🏥 A doctor’s appointment

🏫 A school meeting

🧑‍💼 A job interview

🎉 A community event or wedding

📱 Or even during a video call using VRS!

📚 How do interpreters get trained?

Becoming an interpreter takes a lot of dedication and care!

🧠 First, you need strong ASL and English skills

🏫 Then, you attend an Interpreter Training Program (ITP)

📝 Next, you pass a certification test (like through RID)

🌍 And—this is super important—you learn about Deaf culture, too!

Because interpreting isn’t just about hands and words—it’s about understanding our community and showing respect for how we live, communicate, and express ourselves.

🧍‍♀️ How I like people to interact with me (not my interpreter!)

This part is really important to me, so listen close 😊

When there’s an interpreter present, here’s how I feel most respected:

✔️ Look at me, the Deaf person you are talking to, do not look at the interpreter

✔️ Talk to me, not about me ("How are you?" not "How is she?")

✔️ Let the interpreter do their job, and focus on building a connection with me

Even if I’m not speaking with my voice, I’m still the one in the conversation. ✨

💙 Interpreters make communication possible

With a great interpreter, the world opens up—I can go anywhere, meet anyone, and express myself fully in ASL.

They’re not there because something is missing. They’re there so everyone can understand and be understood.

And that’s something we all deserve, right? 💬💫