The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators made adjustments, as many groups are doing, in light of the coronavirus and held its Summer Spectacular via Zoom. Increased attendance became an upside of that as many people, including me, would probably not have spent the extra money and time it would have taken to travel to Los Angeles. The organization always works at being inclusive, and this was no exception. A sign language translator filled one of the Zoom slots for every presentation to be sure those who had trouble hearing were included.
Instead of taking something away from the speaker, the translators added another dimension even for those of us who were not hearing impaired. I especially liked Susannah Jaffe’s interpretations and took snapshots of her as she signed. In addition to her hands, her facial expressions gave a commentary on whatever the speaker was saying. Before long, I realized I listened to the presenter, but I kept my eyes on Susannah!
I have had an interest in sign language for longer that I can remember. It became enhanced when our daughter was in college and studied it for a while. She became adept enough that she often signed the hymns or choir specials at church. I realized then as I did with SCBWI’s Summer Spectacular that while inclusion of those who have difficulty hearing is the purpose of sign language, it really enhances the experience for all the participants.
This has left me wondering whether, when we make real efforts toward including all people who may be a little different than we are in some way in all our events, will we not end up enhancing the experience for ourselves as well?