Knowledge Base

Let’s ask the hard question: What happens to language access when we, as a society, step back from prioritizing equity and inclusion? What happens when we shrink our commitment to human rights, to access, to connection? The answer isn’t abstract. It’s being lived. It’s painful. And for many in the Deaf and hard of hearing […]

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have made significant strides in various fields, including language translation and interpretation. One area of particular interest is the translation of American Sign Language (ASL), a complex visual language used by the signing community. As AI technologies continue to evolve, a pressing question arises: Can AI […]

Change is in the air, and with a new administration comes a wave of policy shifts that have already impacted language access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. One of the biggest conversations happening right now is around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). While DEI initiatives are often discussed in terms of race, […]

Since Gateway hosted the Town Hall meeting on Monday, December 9th, a lot more information has surfaced about the upcoming Maryland law. The effect date for the Maryland Interpreting Law has been pushed back to January 1, 2026 while the State Board of Sign Language Interpreters (SBSLI) works out its rules and regulations. This will […]

Communication is a bridge that connects us to the world, and sign language—specifically American Sign Language (ASL)—is a profound tool that goes beyond words. Continued learning and becoming skilled in ASL opens doors to personal growth, professional opportunities, and deeper connections. Gateway proudly offers ASL classes tailored for all skill levels, empowering individuals to enrich […]

Inclusion isn’t just about writing policies; it’s about taking meaningful action. Nowhere is this more apparent than for those in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, where many institutions offer the bare minimum of accommodations, leaving individuals without robust access to communication. If we’re truly serious about creating an inclusive society, it’s time to […]

As the Director of Interpreting at Gateway, I have seen firsthand how vital effective communication is to the success of any organization. Language is the bridge that connects people, facilitates understanding, and ensures everyone can participate fully in both the workplace and society. In a diverse world, where individuals come from various linguistic backgrounds, ensuring […]

The Importance of Investing in Autonomy It’s like putting a Band-Aid on a gaping wound to prioritize profits over the well-being of those we serve. As the Language Access and Inclusion Director at Gateway, I’ve seen the transformative impact of prioritizing people’s health and autonomy.  At Gateway, we believe that ensuring everyone – both within […]

As the Director of interpreting services, I am acutely aware of the pressing challenges facing the Deaf community today. Recent trends have spotlighted a massive shortage of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, a crisis that is set to deepen with the upcoming 2025 law mandating all interpreters to be officially licensed by the state. This […]