As a deaf individual who suffers from chronic migraine, I find myself caught between the need for communication and health complications. The blue screen and glares from video sign language interpreting (VRI) often trigger painful migraine, making communication difficult. Still, University Hospital only offer VRI, stifling options for other forms of interpretation.

We should not be limited to choices that do not fully meet our needs. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was put in place to protect our rights. Yet, the current enforcement of VRI exclusively neglects the needs of individuals like me who require in-person interpreting for health and ease of comprehension. This is a matter of human rights, and thus should be treated with urgency.

Currently, about 15% of American adults (37.5 million) aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing (NIDCD, 2021). Each of these individuals deserves access to communication options that work best for them. Undeniably, the current enforcement of VRI puts a significant number of us at a disadvantage.

We urge for the amendment of the ADA law. The change should ensure that deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals are given the choice between VRI and in-person interpretation, particularly in vital institutions like hospitals.

Let's stand up for those who are oppressed by the limitations enforced by current health and care systems. Sign this petition to promote a society that values and caters to the needs of all its members. Let's make accessibility and individual choice a reality.