PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Ritchie Bryant | RID President CDI, CLIP-R

ASL Version: https://youtu.be/y2ksBjC9qTI

Welcome to RID VIEWS, where we delve into the heart of sign language interpreting and explore the multifaceted world of intersectionality. As we navigate through this terrain, we must acknowledge the imperative role of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (DEIAB) principles within RID’s strategic planning objectives.

Our commitment to implementing DEIAB principles is rooted in the recognition that diverse voices enrich our organization and strengthen our collective knowledge base. We champion the inclusion of communities of color, interpreters of color, individuals with neurodiversity, and people with disabilities, recognizing that their perspectives contribute invaluable insights to our profession.

Each person brings to the table a multitude of identities, making it impossible to compartmentalize or prioritize one over the other. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of embracing intersectionality and creating spaces where individuals can authentically represent the complexity of their identities.

Throughout my tenure, I’ve remained keenly aware of the diverse tapestry of individuals within our community. Every person’s unique blend of experiences and identities shapes their communication styles and interactions with the world. This awareness propelled me to delve into the concept of intersectionality in interpreting, recognizing its profound implications for our profession.

Intersectionality, coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw (Crenshaw, 1989), illuminates the intricate interplay of different identity facets. It extends beyond mere labels of race, gender, or Deaf identity, delving into how these facets intersect and influence one’s experiences. In interpreting, this understanding is pivotal, as it sheds light on how our work is intricately tied to the diverse identities and experiences of those we serve.

Our exploration of intersectionality in interpreting unveils the myriad of ways in which our practice is shaped by the complex web of human experiences. Beyond being intellectually stimulating, this exploration is crucial for enhancing our practice and delivering optimal service to our clients.

Furthermore, understanding intersectionality enables us to confront and challenge our own biases and assumptions. As interpreters, our identities and experiences inevitably influence our work, often unconsciously. By embracing intersectionality, we can actively dismantle biases and strive to provide more equitable and responsive interpreting services.

In conclusion, as we embark on this journey of exploration and introspection, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to DEIAB principles and the recognition of intersectionality’s significance in our profession. Together, we can cultivate an inclusive environment where every voice is valued, and every identity is celebrated.

Reference:

Crenshaw, K. (1989). Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: A Black Feminist Critique of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory and Antiracist Politics. University of Chcago Legal Forum, 1989(1), Article 8.