To address the accessibility issue for the deaf community during Super Bowl performances, you can consider the following strategies:

*Inclusion of Signers On-Screen:
Ensure that signers are prominently featured on screen during the live ASL performances of the National Anthem or America the Beautiful.
Signers should ideally appear on stage with the performers or in a picture-in-picture format.
Use a sufficient size and resolution to enable clear visibility without being obscured by other on-screen content.
* Collaborative Performances:
Encourage collaboration between the ASL performer and the singer on stage, as demonstrated by Marlee Matlin and Garth Brooks in 1993.
Showcase the unity of the performance by having both the singer and the ASL performer share the stage.
* Accurate Closed Captions:
Ensure that closed captions are accurate, clearly visible, and synchronized with the performance.
Use a font size and color that make captions easy to read against the background.
* Pre-Game and Halftime Accessibility:
Include full ASL performances in the regular TV broadcast for the general public during pre-game and halftime shows.
Eliminate the need for the deaf and hearing communities to search for separate links to access ASL performances.
* Post-Game Accessibility:
If the live broadcast cannot accommodate full ASL performances, make sure that the complete performances are available on social media platforms immediately after the game.
* Provide official, high-quality recordings to prevent reliance on shaky amateur videos.
* Advocacy for Equal Access:
Utilize the reach of the Super Bowl, with its estimated 99 million U.S. TV viewers and additional international viewers, to advocate for equal access to all, including the deaf and hard of hearing communities.
Emphasize the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for a diverse audience.
* Awareness Campaigns:
Run awareness campaigns leading up to the Super Bowl to educate the public about the need for accessibility for the deaf community.
Use platforms like social media, press releases, and interviews to highlight the issue and garner support.
* Engage Performers:
Encourage performers, both singers, and ASL interpreters, to advocate for and actively support full accessibility during their Super Bowl performances.
By implementing these strategies, the aim is to create a more inclusive Super Bowl experience that considers the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing communities, ensuring equal access to iconic performances.

-by Federico Quintana, ASL Teacher (Deaf) & Author, ASL Yes!