Sign language ideologies and deaf interpreters in Canada

This article reports preliminary survey and interview data from a 3-year study regarding language ideologies related to deaf interpreters (DIs). DIs are professional sign language interpreters who are deaf and who may work as part of a team with hearing sign language interpreters. Survey data provide a snapshot of current DI demographics and reflect that most DIs are Canadian-born and from a grandparent generation. This suggests that a precarious national sign language ecosystem currently exists in Canada. Data from an interview with one DI participant reveal how this participant, by virtue of his education in Canadian deaf schools and professional background, was positioned as a peer of other Canadian deaf professionals. Simultaneously, due to his immigrant background and accompanying lived experiences of language and multilayered repertoire, he was positioned in solidarity with deaf clients who were newcomers to Canada and multiply marginalised. This dual positioning and status enabled insights regarding dominant language ideologies among DIs and other deaf professionals.