Conclusion

    The deaf and hard-of-hearing communities have been struggling for equal access and opportunity for quite some time. Although there have been many improvements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the requirement for interpreters at COVID-19 briefings, these communities still have a ways to go. As an ASL interpreter, I hope to be able to be a voice for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Not only do I want to interpret, but I also want to be an advocate and speak up for the rights of the deaf and hard-of-hearing. I have had a passion for ASL since I was a sophomore and I hope to continue to grow that passion in the future as I continue to study in the American Sign Language program at Valdosta State. 

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