During the pandemic, press conferences with critical information were sign language interpreted, but now this service has largely disappeared, according to officials from the Danish Deaf Association, who argue that deaf individuals are now missing out on important crisis and preparedness information like the rest of the population.
The Danish Deaf Association has raised concerns about the lack of sign language interpretation for press conferences that provide crucial information during crises. During the pandemic, these conferences were consistently interpreted, ensuring that the deaf community received the same essential updates as the general population. However, officials from the association claim that this service has almost entirely disappeared in the current situation, leaving deaf individuals at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing vital information.
To address this issue, the association is advocating for a formal proposal that would reinstate sign language interpretation at such events. They are gathering support from the public, and if they can collect 50,000 signatures in favor of the proposal, it will be submitted to the Danish Parliament, the Folketing. This proposal would then embark on a legislative process requiring three readings in parliament before it could be adopted with a majority.
This move highlights the ongoing challenges faced by disabled communities in accessing information that affects their lives. The push for improved access to information underscores the importance of inclusivity in crisis communication, which has significant implications for the well-being and safety of deaf individuals, particularly in emergency situations.
