ASL Interpreter at Erykah Badu Concert

I noticed this interpreter while at the Austin City Limits Music Festival jammin to Badu. She was signin her ass off!

Category:

Music

Tags:

• American
• Sign
• Language
• Erykah
• Badu
• Interpreter
• Austin
• City
• Limits
• ACL
• Hip
• Hop

[NunoMiguel]

They couldn't find a black interpreter for an Erykah Badu concert? I know there are fewer black ASL interpreters out there, but come on, couldn't find ONE?

[ChrisChrisUT]

You really think it's that important?

[torment90]

For those claiming that a "white" individual isn't fit for a Black singer's lyrics are totally wrong; close-minded; and ignorant, to name a few. And for those African Americans--on this comment board, and no where else, need to stop playing the victim. Black people are not the only ones who go through "shit" in life. Get over it.

[MsRebecki]

@NunoMiguel

Seems to me that if a white person has to interpret that, Farrakan won. Why complain?

[MsRebecki]

@NunoMiguel

Maybe they couldn't. They gotta choose from a local pool - it's not like they fly them in from other states. Since there are fewer black interpreters, the odds are pretty good they are going to end up with a white one.

[MsRebecki]

@SoulCity11000

White people do feel love, sometimes do hate the system and government, are often not rich, are sometimes from broken families, and some live in filth. Yes, all true. Also true is that whites do have the need to create unity, they do experience racism, they have been refugees, and obviously have ancestors and culture.

What is different is the historical context of oppression. And that makes a HUGE difference.

[MsRebecki]

@NunoMiguel

I agree it is sad, but in this case, the interpreter is probably local. FYI, Badu had no control over who interprets, nor is it likely she even knew she would have a terp until shortly before the show. There aren't many certified & legally qualified interpreters to begin with. There are even fewer black ones. But, honestly, would say ... an older black interpreter from Cosby days deliver Badu interpretation better than a young hip white interpreter who LOVES Badu? Doubtful.

[MsRebecki]

@torment90

While I agree that the best interpreter isn't necessarily going to match in race, I totally disagree with your statement about blacks playing the "victim." Yes, there is racism on both sides, and both groups need to "get over it." But the point is, the approach to them is not the same, or they shouldn't be. White racism is based on deep rooted irrational fears. Black racism is based on historical facts. They are not going to be overcome the same way, nor are the same thing.

[MsRebecki]

@paleheartdiscard

Yes, she did get paid for it LOL. She also went to school, took certification tests, and had to work very hard for her certification. If she is the official terp for the concert and not some random person standing up in the crowd, then yep. She got paid, and not likely by Badu.

[MsRebecki]

@nolitafaerietale. Yes, deaf people pay for tickets - no special perks. 'Terps are needed because the lyrics and vibe/energy are very important in following a song/show and they are normally paid for by the venue/ampitheatre. It is normal if arrangements are made beforehand. As for the race question - the right terp is usually a fan of the musician, and can deliver the energy/vibe of that musician well. Race is ONE consideration, if any. And, finally, there aren't many black terps out there.

[theisign]

Black, white, green, blue - it doesn't matter. The appropriate interpreter is the one who can best provide equal access for the people who are there to enjoy the concert. i found the issue to be one that may appear insignificant: The interpreter is wearing a dangling bracelet that is distracting. She should not be wearing jewelry that moves. Other than that, she really did a good job shoing the music AND the lyrics. Most interpreters cannot do what she did.

[NunoMiguel]

I can't believe this thread stil gets comments. For the record I have not changed my mind, nor do I believe I have said anything racist. I still feel a culturally Black interpreter would have been a more appropriate fit. If not for the simple reason that this song contains the lyrics:

"As sure is all and all is one

We all should grow before its done

So I salute you Farrakan, yes

'Cause you are me"